PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS OF MALNUTRITION IN CHILDREN BETWEEN 6 MONTHS TO 5 YEARS OF AGE IN PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY AND OUTPATIENT DEPARTMENT OF CHAUDHRY MUHAMMAD AKRAM TEACHING AND RESEARCH HOSPITAL LAHORE

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of malnutrition in children between 6 months to 5 year of age in the pediatric emergency (ER) and outpatient department (OPD) and to determine frequency of various risk factors in SAM children screened in our study.

Study Design: Cross sectional study.

Study Setting: Department of Pediatric Emergency and Outpatient, Chaudhry Muhammad Akram Teaching & Research Hospital, Lahore.

Study Duration: Five Months (February to June, 2025).

Methodology: 340 children aged 6 months to 5 years of either gender were enrolled. Children with congenital heart disease, chronic illnesses, major surgical history, intensive care admission, or those accompanied by non-parental attendants were excluded. Data were collected through a semi-structured questionnaire including demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, and risk factors for malnutrition. Anthropometric assessment included weight, height, and mid-upper arm circumference measured using standard techniques.

Results: More than half of the participants were aged 6–36 months (54.4%), with a slight female predominance (52.9%). Most children presented through the outpatient department (60.0%). The mean age was 32.97 ± 16.09 months, mean mid-upper arm circumference was 126.60 ± 14.26 mm, mean weight was 11.59 ± 2.53 kg, and mean height was 86.20 ± 10.06 cm. Malnutrition was identified in 107 children, yielding a prevalence of 31.5%.

Conclusion: Malnutrition remains highly prevalent among children under five years of age in tertiary care settings. The strong association with preventable and modifiable factors emphasizes the need for integrated, multi-sectoral strategies focusing on maternal education, immunization coverage, optimal feeding practices, and perinatal care.