Malnutrition and associated factors among sick children needing hospital care in District Umerkot, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: In the Umerkot area of Pakistan, where malnutrition is common, a local hospital discovered that one-third of the hospitalized children were undernourished. The purpose of this research was to identify the prevalence of malnutrition and its associated among pediatric inpatients. 
 Methods: A cross-sectional research was carried out on 298 children who were hospitalized to the District Headquarter Hospital in Umerkot and ranged in age from 06 months to 05 years. In order to determine malnutrition in accordance with WHO guidelines, anthropometry measures such as mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) were taken. The clinical diagnosis, immunization history, and food intake were documented. 
 Results: The prevalence of malnutrition was 34.6%, with moderate (26.5%) and severe (8.1%) cases included. In children, underweight afflicted 29.5%. Common diagnoses during admission were measles (18.8%), pneumonia (17.4%), and diarrhea (15.8%). Malnutrition was significantly correlated with inadequate food intake and an age-inappropriate vaccination rate of 8.7%, which is in agreement with previous research results. 
 Conclusions: In order to address the critically high prevalence of inpatient malnutrition, pediatric care must include standards for nutritional assessment and treatment as well as capacity development. In local communities, it's also critical to do routine growth monitoring and to promote immunization, proper hygiene, and balanced diets.
 Keywords: Malnutrition; Pediatrics; Nutritional status; Mid-upper arm circumference; Pakistan