A study on epidemiological determinants of malnutrition and health status of under-5 children in the field practice area of rural health training center

Abstract

Introduction: Malnutrition is the condition that results from eating a diet in which certain nutrients are lacking, in excess, or in the wrong proportions. Child is the victim of interplay of nutrition, socioeconomic (SE), and health factors that cause malnutrition. Aim: The aim is to study the epidemiological determinants of malnutrition and health status of under-5 children. Material and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was carried out in 600 under-5 (0–59 months) children from March 1, 2012 to July 31, 2013, in Rural Health Training Center field practice area by house-to-house survey till the desired sample was achieved. Sociodemographic information, mother's obstetric history, clinical examination, and anthropometry measurement of under-5 children and immunization status (either by history or by available medical records) was obtained. Results: Majority (534 [89%]) of children were Hindus, from lower SE Class III and IV, 337 (56.2%) and 193 (32.2%), respectively. Sex ratio was 980 females/1000 males. Quarter (122) of the children belonged to age group 0–11 months followed by 138 (23%) and 123 (20.5%) from 12 to 23 months and 48–59 months, respectively. The prevalence of wasting, stunting, and underweight was 151 (25.2%), 237 (39.5%), and 223 (37.2%), respectively. Acute morbidity rate was observed to be 47 (7.8%). Full immunization appropriate for age was 537 (89.5%). Under-5 mortality rate was 30/1000 under-5 years children per year (n = 18). Conclusion: Prevalence of malnutrition was high in males and lower SE Class (III and IV). Acute morbidity was higher in males than females.