Validity of Mothers’ Reports of Children’s Weight in Japan

Estimation methods for pediatric weight have not been evaluated for Japanese children. This study aimed to assess the accuracy of mothersʼ reports of their childrenʼs weight in Japan. We also evaluated potential alternatives to the estimation of weight, including the Broselow tape (BT), Advanced Pediatric Life Support (APLS), and Parkʼs formulae. We prospectively collected cross-sectional data on a convenience sample of 237 children aged less than 10 years who presented to a general pediatric outpatient clinic with their mothers. Each weight estimation method was evaluated using Bland-Altman plots and by calculating the proportion within 10 and 20 of the measured weight. Mothersʼ reports of weight were the most accurate method, with 94.9 within 10 of the measured weight, the lowest mean difference (0.27kg), and the shortest 95 limit of agreement (－1.4 to 1.9kg). The BT was the most reliable alternative, followed by APLS and Parkʼs formulae. Mothersʼ reports of their children ʼs weight are more accurate than other weight estimation methods. When no report of a childʼs weight by the mother is available, BT is the best alternative. When an aged-based formula is the only option, the APLS formula is preferred.