WHO Fetal Growth Charts

Fetal Growth Complications

Perinatal mortality and morbidity continue to be major global health challenges strongly associated with prematurity and reduced fetal growth, an issue of further interest given the mounting evidence that fetal growth in general is linked to degrees of risk of common noncommunicable diseases in adulthood. Ultrasound estimation of fetal weight before birth is today very widely used in clinical practice, and, while essential for the identification and management of high-risk pregnancies,the current reference ranges used worldwide are largely based on single populations from a few high-income countries and are therefore of uncertain general applicability.

Against this background, WHO made it a high priority to provide fetal growth charts for estimated fetal weight and common ultrasound biometric measurements intended for worldwide use. WHO study was conducted in 10 countries including Egypt (Assiut).The study showed that fetal growth differs significantly between countries. Growth was to a small extent influenced by maternal age, height, weight, and parity, and by fetal sex. The study suggested that these WHO charts for growth are more suitable for international use than those commonly applied today. However, the differences between countries, with maternal factors, and with fetal sex mean that these growth charts may need to be adjusted for local clinical use to increase their diagnostic and predictive performance. In our setting, we are using the charts built in the ultrasound machines based on studies done in western countries. So, it is prudent now to implement the WHO fetal growth charts in our setting

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