Final Answer:
The use of calipers to measure skin-fold thickness over the triceps muscle in a school-age child serves the purpose of estimating body fat percentage. Therefore, the correct answer is option 1) To measure body fat.
Step-by-step explanation:
Using calipers to measure skin-fold thickness is a common method in anthropometry, a branch of anthropology dealing with the measurement of the human body. Specifically, the triceps skinfold measurement is often employed to estimate body fat percentage. The rationale behind this technique is that the thickness of subcutaneous fat at certain sites on the body, like the triceps, can provide an indication of overall body fat content. As adipose tissue is a major contributor to skin-fold thickness, measuring it helps healthcare professionals and researchers assess body composition and nutritional status.
In the context of a school-age child, monitoring body fat is particularly important for evaluating growth and development. This method allows healthcare providers to assess if a child has a healthy amount of body fat relative to their total body weight. Understanding body composition aids in identifying potential issues such as malnutrition or obesity, enabling healthcare professionals to tailor interventions and nutritional guidance. It's important to note that while this method provides a valuable estimate, it is one of several techniques used in conjunction to comprehensively evaluate body composition.
Measuring skin-fold thickness over the triceps is a non-invasive, cost-effective, and widely utilized approach in clinical and research settings. Although it provides an estimate rather than a direct measurement of body fat percentage, it serves as a practical tool for assessing nutritional status and supporting overall health in children.