Prevalence and Predictors of Acute Malnutrition in Children Aged 6–59 Months: A Hospital-Based Study Using Logistic Regression
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58342/MJ.V.3.I.2.8Keywords:
Acute malnutrition, child physical growth, mid-upper arm circumference, logistic regression, anthropometric indicatorsAbstract
Background: Acute malnutrition in children is a major public health challenge in developing countries, with serious consequences for physical and cognitive development.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 685 children aged 6 months to 5 years who visited the Abu Ali Sina Regional Hospital in Balkh in 2023. Data on weight, height, mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), age, sex, and age group were collected and analyzed using the chi-square test and logistic regression to examine the relationship between demographic and anthropometric indicators and malnutrition.
Results: Sex showed no significant association with the prevalence of malnutrition (p=0.582). Decreased weight and height significantly increased the risk of malnutrition (p < 0.001), while age and age group had no significant effect. The mean weight, height, and MUAC increased with age but remained below global standards.
Conclusion: Early monitoring of anthropometric indicators is essential for timely prevention and intervention in malnutrition. Strengthening primary healthcare and family education can help reduce the prevalence of malnutrition.
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