AutoAnthro

AutoAnthro uses 3D imagery and BST’s proprietary modeling software to capture detailed body parameters. Information such as height and the circumference of the head and arm can be determined quickly and with a rate of accuracy that is on par with traditional anthropometry. Data is then easily digitized, uploaded from the device and analyzed.

Anthropometry is the scientific study of the measurements and proportions of the human body. Public health works and researchers rely on anthropometric measurements for tracking child growth and health status, particularly for children under five in low-and-middle income countries where the prevalence of undernutrition continues to be high. Low height for age can determine stunting in children under five, a condition of physical and intellectual impairment that has lasting negative effects. Current anthropometric best practices require multiple data collection processes, soft tape measures, and a height board.  In practice, this frequently involves manual data entry as well. Inaccuracy and missing data is still common as a result of the current process, which involves many steps.

AutoAnthro aims to become the gold standard of anthropometry in order to help target public health interventions to reduce childhood malnutrition. AutoAnthro was tested for efficiency, invasiveness and user experience in partnership with Emory University beginning in 2015. Results were published in a peer reviewed article in 2017. Several research organizations are currently using and testing the technology in the field, comparing it to traditional methods used in low income areas.

Experiences from these and other trials in the pipeline will influence the next version of the product, which BST aims to make available for widespread and affordable use.

Watch a live demonstration of AutoAnthro here.