Peer-reviewed article

Recognizing Growth Concerns in 1- to 5-Year-Olds: A Practical Algorithm for Screening and Early Intervention in Primary Care.

Best J, Davies PSW, Hunt L, Leech A, McCarthy H et al. · 7 May 2026

Abstract

Background: Poor or rapid growth velocity in early childhood can have negative long-term health consequences. Early identification of children at risk of growth problems facilitates timely intervention to change growth trajectories and health parameters, but barriers exist to routine screening in primary care. Methods: Experts from general practice, primary care nursing, pediatrics, dietetics, and academic research convened to develop a practical algorithm to support routine growth screening and intervention in children aged 1 to 5 years in primary care. Results: Using a single initial measurement of weight and height in conjunction with risk factor assessment, the algorithm presented here identifies children at risk of poor or rapid growth velocity and provides guidance for intervention and follow-up frameworks. Conclusions: This tool helps to define children in the community setting who are at risk of poor or rapid growth velocity and supports primary care providers in promoting healthy growth trajectories through timely intervention and continued routine growth monitoring.