MALNUTRITION: NON-ORGANIC RISK FACTORS

Abstract

Objective: Aim of study is to find out non- organic risk factors for malnutrition in children of age between 6 months -5 years
Study design: Cross sectional survey
Place and duration: Department of pediatric medicine, Sheikh Zayed hospital Rahim Yaar Khan from April 2014 to November 2014.
Material and Methods: 164 children of age between 6 months to 5 years were selected in study after meeting inclusion criteria and their risk factors were assessed.
Results:164 children aged between 6month-5 years having malnutrition were studied .There were 90 males and 74 females children.50.6% mothers were illiterate, 57.3%, fathers were unemployed, 62.2% mothers were working women,56.1% cases had monthly income below average and large family size observed in 68.3% cases. Exclusive breast feeding were given to 20.7%, 50.6% participants were unvaccinated, 62.2% cases had reported single room houses. Twin deliveries were found in 12.8%, Delayed weaning were seen in 45.7% and inadequate cleanliness of hands evaluated in 61% cases, Poor sanitation were observed in 79.3% ,4.9% cases had experienced 1st degree malnutrition,32.9% and 62.2% had reported 2nd and 3rd degree malnutrition respectively. Conclusion: Maternal illiteracy, father unemployment, working mothers, large family size, small houses, lack of breastfeeding, delayed weaning, non vaccination status, twin/multiple delivery, and poor sanitation were major non organic risk factors for malnutrition.
Keywords: Malnutrition, Non-organic risk factors, Children