MUAC is measured midway between the acromion and olecranon processes, as illustrated on the right. It is measured using a standardised measuring tape. MUAC is a practical and useful measurement for assessing wasting. MUAC in a growing child changes very little between the ages of 6-59 months but decreases measurably when fat and muscle are lost. MUAC is very practical for community-based screening for acute malnutrition as many children can be assessed in a short time. But note that skill is required as there is large variability in MUAC when measured by inexperienced staff.