Prevalence of malnutrition among underfive children and factors contributing to malnutrition

Mrs. Lija R Nath

Volume : VI, Issue : III, March - 2017

Prevalence of malnutrition among underfive children and factors contributing to malnutrition

Mrs. Lija R Nath

Abstract :

A nation�s most important and precious resource is its children who constitute its hope for continuous achievement and productivity. Malnutrition remains one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality among children throughout the world. About fifty percent of childhood deaths are attributed to malnutrition.The research study was aimed to assess the prevalence of malnutrition among underfive children and to determine the factors contributing to malnutrition. The design used was descriptive cross sectional survey. The study was conducted in two selected wards of Nellanadu Panchayath in Thiruvananthapuram district with a sample size of 111. Data collection was done by measuring the weight of the children with caliated weighing machine and mid upper arm circumference with an inch tape. Malnutrition was assessed based on IAP classification. Sociodemographic profile was used to record the socio personal variables. Data collection was done by house to house visit. According to the results of the study 14.4 % of underfive children had grade I malnutrition and only 2.7% had grade II malnutrition. There was a strong association between malnutrition and selected variables such as gender of the child, family income, low birth weight and lack of exclusive east feeding ( p<0.05)). The study findings can be used for planning targeted nursing interventions for the prevention of malnutrion among underfive children.