Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC)

Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) is a simple measurement taken around the upper arm, at about halfway between the shoulder and elbow. It helps assess a person's nutritional status, especially for detecting malnutrition or undernutrition. MUAC is useful because it is quick, non-invasive, requires minimal equipment (a measuring tape), and provides reliable indications of muscle and fat stores associated with overall health. It is commonly used in community health settings and emergencies to identify individuals who may need nutritional support or further medical assessment.