This study explores the relationship among early life factors and body composition in Jamaican children aged 9‒12 years. Mothers who were heavier and taller in their first trimester and offspring with higher birthweight had greater height and lean body mass (LBM) at age 11 years.

This study provides ethnic- and gender-specific growth curves for the Jamaican newborn and is based on the most extensive data-set currently available in Jamaica for babies of West African descent.