Linear and ponderal growth changes in boys and girls from Puerto Madryn (Patagonia, Argentina) between 2001 and 2016

Background: The phenotypic plasticity in growth pattern that takes place over time is described as “secular trend”. presence of secular changes evidences shifts the environmental conditions under which a population lives. In this regard, study residing northeast Argentine Patagonia interesting because it underwent rapid demographic and urban sprawl last 50 years.
 Objective: To compare height body weight two groups boys girls between 6 14 years old from Puerto Madryn (northeast Patagonia) estimate trend during first decades 21st century.
 Sample Methods: Height schoolchildren were compared. Data group (G1) was collected 2001–2006 period, second (G2) 2014–2016.
 analyze comparison groups, Friedman Wilcoxon test (p < 0.05) used. Centile values (3rd, 50th 97th) variables by sex age both also calculated. Then, they compared using test.
 Results: Both sexes showed statistically significant differences for all centiles 97th centiles. G2 above G1 most ages.
 Conclusion: Boys show positive linear ponderal patterns. These changes, registered century, are possibly related to city variations associated socio-environmental conditions.