Prevalence of Malnutrition among Children Under Five Years of Age, Angola Area, Umbada Locality, Khartoum State (2015 2017)

Abstract

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Malnutrition is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in children under the age of five years in developing countries. OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to study the magnitude and risk factors of malnutrition among less than five years children in Angola area in Umbada Locality, Khartoum state. MATERIAL &METHODS: A cross-sectional prevalence study was undertaken in Angola area in Umbada Locality. About 282 mothers and children under five yrs were selected by a systematic random sampling for six clusters in each cluster a number of 47 subject s were selected. Children under five years ages were carefully assessed and their weights and heights taken. A questionnaire was filled by mothers. Data were collected about socio-demographic variables and possible risk factors associated with malnutrition in addition to observation check list regarding sanitation, waste collection and disposal, water sources and houses health environment and methods of keeping food. Children were classified into normal, mild, moderate and severe degrees of malnutrition according to the three approaches (height, weight and age). Data was analyzed through SPSS program. RESULTS: The total prevalence of malnutrition was 24.4%. Female children were more affected by malnutrition than were male children. The study observed that age, mother’s education and father’s education were found to be important factors in prevalence. The cases found were classified into 19.1% severe malnutrition, 4.6% moderate and 0.7% mild malnutrition while 75.5% were found normal. Children were weaned earlier mostly during one and half year. Most of mothers who were working had breastfeed their Childs after and before work. Local food was the commonest supplement. There was a high prevalence of infectious diseases amongIV children in the area, especially diarrheas, and respiratory tract infections, malaria and measles. Wrong concepts were common among mothers about visits for MCH centers; they thought there was no need. Conclusion & recommendations: Malnutrition was prevalent among children under five years in Angola area. Health and nutrition education, as well as training of health workers are strongly recommended