Normative Values of Some Morphometric Variables for Kosovo Albanian Population

What is it about?

The purpose of this study was to find out normative values of the Body Height, Body Weight, Body Mass Index and Basal Metabolic Rate, as well as to study, observe and to clarify the dynamics of physical growth and changes. Four anthropometric variables were measured in 94825 male Albanian entities from Kosovo aged 06->70 years old, during the period 2007–2016. The same variables were measured in 409 sportsmen from Kosovo. Gained results indicate average to high Body Height of measured male Kosovo Albanians (50.6 % of entities = 1700-1799 mm; 38.2 % = 1800-1899 mm). The smaller entity with body height 1015 mm belongs to age-group of 6 years old, while the higher entity with 2015 mm belongs to the age group of 19 years old. Kosovo Albanian sportsmen aged 17-25 years with average Body Height=1847.75 mm and Body Weight=75.87 kg belongs to the group of higher people with ideal body weight.

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Why is it important?

Establishing normative values for morphometric variables such as body height, body weight, body mass index (BMI), and basal metabolic rate (BMR) is essential for understanding the physical growth patterns, health status, and anthropological characteristics of a population. This study provides, for the first time, valid reference standards for the Kosovo Albanian male population aged 6 to over 70 years, based on measurements from a large sample of 94,825 individuals and 409 athletes. These normative data are important for several reasons: Health Monitoring and Risk Assessment – Since body height, weight, BMI, and BMR are linked to health outcomes and disease risks, having accurate reference values enables more precise screening for underweight, overweight, or obesity, as well as related metabolic conditions. Growth and Development Tracking – The study identifies key phases of rapid growth (ages 7–8 and 13–15) and decline (60+ years), offering benchmarks to monitor whether individuals or groups are developing normally relative to national standards. Anthropological and Ethnographic Significance – The findings contribute to the understanding of the physical characteristics of Kosovo Albanians, who are part of the Dinaric Alps anthropological region, and help compare them with historical and contemporary populations. Sports Science and Talent Identification – By analysing athletes separately, the study highlights typical morphometric profiles of elite sportsmen, which can be used for talent selection, training optimisation, and performance monitoring. Public Health and Policy Planning – Reliable normative values allow health authorities, educators, and policymakers to design targeted nutritional, physical activity, and preventive health programmes based on the real anthropometric profile of the population. In short, these normative values are a critical scientific tool for medical, anthropological, sports, and public health applications, ensuring that assessments, interventions, and research involving the Kosovo Albanian population are evidence-based and population-specific.

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