Prevalence and Determinants of Malnutrition among Pre-School Children in Northern Nigeria

Abstract

Nutritional assessment in the community is an essential public health tool. The aim of the study was to obtain baseline assessment of nutritional indices of pre-school children in a typical rural Northern Nigerian community in order to estimate the prevalence and determinants of malnutrition. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among children (2-5 years) using structured, interviewer administered questionnaire to collect data from mothers/primary care givers. Data was collected on socio-demogra phic variables, anthropometric indices and environmental sanitation. A total of 294 children out of 300 aged 2-5 years were studied, both sexes were equal. Mean age was 42.2±12.6 months; overall mean weight and mean height were respectively 13.9±3.0 kg and 91.6±9.6 cm. Generally females had a mean weight and height that was significantly higher than that of males. In this study, 44.9%, 15.6% and 3.7% were respectively stunted, underweight and wasted. 54% of mothers had primary education and were full time housewives. Sources of drinking water were from river and unprotected well, 98% of HHs dispose off their refuse by open dumping. The high prevalence of malnutrition revealed in this study calls for a sustained public health programme to control this menace. There is need for nutrition education to mothers on infant feeding, weaning practices and improved sanitation. Therefore prevention of malnutrition should be given high priority in th e implementation of primary health care programmes especially in rural communities.