The transformative potential of digital anthropometry in pediatric health: mapping a decade of innovations in anthropometric assessment (2014–2023) 10.55131/jphd/2026/240224
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Abstract
Pediatric health is crucial for global well-being, as growth and development indicators significantly influence long-term outcomes. Traditional anthropometric methods often face inaccuracies. Digital anthropometry that uses technology like 3D scanners offers precise, efficient solutions that promise to enhance pediatric health monitoring. This review aims to explore the current state of digital anthropometry in pediatric health. The authors sourced articles from EBSCO, PubMed, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, and Scopus between 2014 and 2023. The studies were reviewed based on set criteria, synthesizing data according to technology types, measurement capabilities, contributions to pediatric health, and adoption challenges and opportunities. The use of digital technologies was highlighted using 32 studies, most of which used a 3D scanner. These technologies made significant contributions to pediatric health. For instance, 3D scanners were used to assess cranial deformation in infants, detect facial features associated with Williams Syndrome, and monitor body composition to identify risks of obesity. Digital anthropometry enhances measurement capabilities, particularly in assessing diverse body dimensions. It contributes to improved nutritional and growth assessment, diagnosis and management of health conditions, medical device design, and home use applications. Despite challenges such as technical failures in scan processing and measurement inaccuracies caused by child movement or suboptimal conditions, the non-invasive, portable, and automated nature of these technologies presents significant opportunities for advancing pediatric health. This review highlights the transformative potential of digital anthropometry in pediatric health, addressing a critical gap in previous literature, which has predominantly focused on adult populations or single technologies. By synthesizing diverse applications across digital tools specifically for children, this review helps clarify how these innovations can improve growth monitoring and promote global health equity. Despite adoption barriers, its integration into healthcare is crucial, and future research needs to address challenges and ensure sustainability.
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