Impact of morbidity among under-five children

Abstract

The burden of morbidity and mortality among infants is the highest in developing countries. The future economic growth of a country depends upon the well-being of the infants of today; hence, infants need the utmost attention of society through organized medical care and social activities. Feeding infants and young children properly are essential for their growth, development, nutritional status, health, and survival. Improper feeding practices may lead to irreversible outcomes like malnutrition, infectious diseases, attention deficit, memory failure, lower IQ, and lifelong poor cognitive and behavioral development. This review was taken to assess the cause, prevalence, and impact of various morbidities during infancies. The literature search covered both conceptual and specific literature. The specific literature search was on the assessment of morbidities among infants. Morbidities were further classified into diarrhea, acute respiratory infections (ARIs), and fever. Factors affecting each morbidity during the first year of life were classified as International and Indian studies. The studies were further categorized based on methodology as cross-sectional, prospective studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis. We conclude that the incidence of morbidities specifically ARIs, diarrhea, and fever have a debilitating effect on the growth and development of infants. Further research is required to assess the impact of morbidity on growth and development in children.