MALNUTRITION IN CHILDREN FROM 6-59 MONTHS AT LGH

Abstract

Introduction: Malnutrition in children below the age of 5 years is a significant problem and has been identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the most lethal form of malnutrition, indirectly or directly causes an annual death of at least 5 million children worldwide.

Study Design: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the prevalence of malnutrition and associated factors among children aged 6- 59 months.

Study Duration: The study was conducted from 15th April to 30th May, 2016 Objective: To assess prevalence of malnutrition and associated factors among children aged 6-59 months at Lahore General Hospital, Lahore.

Methods: A community based cross sectional study was conducted on 100 children aged 6-59 months from April 15th to May 30th, 2016 at Lahore General Hospital. Multistage sampling method was used to select the subjects. Anthropometric measurements and structured questioners were used. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to identify associated factors of malnutrition.

Results: The analysis this study revealed that 45 (45%) children were malnourished while 55 (55%) were normal. The main associated factors of malnourishment were found to be child age, family monthly income, and children were received butter as pre-lacteal feeding and family planning.

Conclusion: From the findings of this study, it is concluded that malnutrition is still an important problem among children aged 6-59 months. Therefore, especial attention should be given on intervention of malnutrition.