What is Human Height?
Human height is defined as the distance from the soles of the feet to the top of the head in the human body. Each person has a specific height that determines their elevation from the ground surface. Typically, human growth, including height increase, stops in the early twenties, usually by the age of twenty-one.
How is Human Height Measured?
Human height is usually measured in centimeters, though feet or inches may sometimes be used. Heights usually range from 60 cm (about 2 feet) to 260 cm (about 8 feet), and generally, the average height for males is greater than for females.
Measuring Height with a Measuring Tape
To measure height, stand up straight without bending shoulders or head. Place the start of the measuring tape at the soles of the feet and extend it to the top of the head, reading the number that indicates the person’s height. If the measuring tape is shorter than the person, measure in two parts: first from the feet to the waist, and then from the waist to the top of the head, adding both measurements for the total height.
Height Ranges
The average suitable height for an adult is 170 cm, correlating with an appropriate weight. People can compare their height with the following ranges: Natural height ranges from 160 cm to 180 cm, excessive shortness ranges from 140 cm to 150 cm, and excessive height ranges from 190 cm to 200 cm.
Factors Affecting Human Height
Genetic factors have a significant influence on height, particularly the height of the parents. Environmental factors, such as wars and poverty areas, can lead to health and psychological issues that affect growth and height. Chronic malnutrition during childhood or adolescence can cause growth disorders. Height deficiency can arise from delayed bone growth or chronic illnesses.
Treating Short Stature
Treating short stature is not an easy matter. If the short stature is not due to genetic reasons, it is possible to identify the factors that led to it and attempt to address each case individually if feasible. Many hormonal treatments and some surgical procedures currently have discouraging and ineffective results.
