What is a MUAC tape and its alternative name?
A MUAC tape, which stands for Mid-Upper Arm Circumference tape, is a flexible, non-stretch measuring tape used to assess the nutritional status of individuals, particularly children between 6 and 59 months of age. While "MUAC tape" is its formal and most widely used name, it is also commonly known as a Shakir Strip.
The origin of the Shakir Strip name
The name "Shakir Strip" can be traced back to Dr. Shakir, a pioneer in the use of anthropometric measurements for nutritional assessment in developing countries. His work popularized the use of this simple, portable, and effective tool for quickly identifying at-risk populations in the field. This alternative name is still widely recognized and used within the public health and humanitarian aid communities.
More than just a measuring tape
What sets a MUAC tape apart from a standard measuring tape is its purpose-driven design. MUAC tapes are often color-coded, with each color representing a different level of nutritional risk based on a specific cut-off point:
- Green: Indicates a healthy nutritional status.
- Yellow/Orange: Indicates moderate acute malnutrition or risk of malnutrition.
- Red: Signifies severe acute malnutrition, which requires immediate attention and treatment.
How is a MUAC tape used?
Using a MUAC tape correctly is crucial for obtaining an accurate assessment. The process is simple and can be performed with minimal training, which is why it is so effective for community-based screening programs.
Steps for a proper MUAC measurement:
- Ask the individual (or a child's caregiver) to have them bend their left arm at a 90-degree angle.
- Locate and mark the midpoint between the tip of the shoulder (acromion) and the tip of the elbow (olecranon).
- Ask the individual to relax their arm, hanging it loosely by their side.
- Wrap the MUAC tape snugly around the marked midpoint of the upper arm, ensuring the tape is flat against the skin.
- Read the measurement where the tape overlaps and note the corresponding color.
- Record the measurement to the nearest millimeter.
Comparison: MUAC Tape vs. Standard Tape Measure
While both are measuring devices, their applications and design differ significantly.
| Feature | MUAC Tape (Shakir Strip) | Standard Tape Measure |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | Assess nutritional status by measuring mid-upper arm circumference. | Measure lengths and distances for general purposes. |
| Color-Coding | Typically features color-coded sections (green, yellow, red) to indicate malnutrition status. | Usually has standard numerical markings only. |
| Material | Made from durable, non-stretch, washable plastic or paper to ensure accuracy and hygiene. | Can be made from various materials (metal, fabric, plastic) and may stretch over time. |
| Target Population | Primarily used for children (6-59 months), pregnant women, and adults in public health contexts. | Used universally by adults for DIY projects, tailoring, and more. |
| Measurement Reading | The color or specific cut-off point is as important as the numerical value for assessment. | The numerical value is the only relevant reading. |
| Portability | Designed to be lightweight and portable for easy use in the field and remote locations. | Varies widely in size and portability. |
Broader applications and types of MUAC tapes
MUAC measurements have proven to be a highly effective screening tool because they are quick, inexpensive, and strongly correlated with mortality risk associated with malnutrition. The utility of MUAC has expanded beyond just children, with specific tapes and cut-offs developed for different populations.
Different types for different demographics
- Infant MUAC Tapes: Specifically designed for infants, sometimes as young as 6 weeks, to facilitate early screening.
- Child MUAC Tapes: The most widely known version, used for children aged 6 to 59 months.
- Adult MUAC Tapes: Used to screen adults and pregnant women, with different cut-off points to determine risk.
Conclusion
The MUAC tape, or Shakir Strip, is a simple but powerful public health tool. Its ability to provide rapid and reliable assessments of nutritional status, indicated by its color-coded scale, makes it invaluable for early detection and intervention, especially in low-resource settings. Recognizing its alternative names and appreciating its specialized function highlights its critical role in the global fight against malnutrition and for improved health outcomes worldwide. For more detailed information on how these tools are used in practice, the Food and Nutrition Technical Assistance (FANTA) Project offers extensive guidance on anthropometric measurement procedures.
