Height
Definition
Stature or body length, typically measured standing from floor to top of head.
Why It Matters
Height is essential for many health calculations: - BMI calculation - Weight/height² for body mass index - Drug dosing - Some medications based on body surface area - Physiologic calculations - VO₂ max, metabolic rate, etc. - Growth tracking - Important in children and adolescents - Risk assessment - Some health risks correlate with height
How It's Obtained
User-entered in Apple Health profile. Should be measured accurately: - Standing straight against a wall - Heels, back, and head touching wall - Without shoes - Measured to nearest centimeter
Reference Values
Height varies significantly by: - Genetics - Geographic region - Age (slight decrease with aging)
Measurement tips: - Height decreases slightly throughout the day - Morning measurements are typically tallest - Adults lose height with age (1-3 cm over decades)
Use Cases
- Health profile - Baseline characteristic
- BMI calculation - Combined with weight
- Fitness metrics - Stride length, VO₂ max context
- Medical records - Standard health documentation
Important Notes
- Measure accurately for valid calculations
- Update if significant changes occur
- Height affects interpretation of many metrics