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Nutritional status in a sample of the Afghan immigrant children within Iran

M Rezaeian1, G Hassanshahi, Z Salem

  • 1Department of Social Medicine, Medical School, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Enghelab Sq., Rafsanjan, Iran.

Pakistan Journal of Biological Sciences : PJBS
|July 29, 2009
PubMed

Insights

This study assessed the Body Mass Index (BMI) of Afghan immigrant children in Iran, finding most had normal weight. However, 16% were underweight, indicating a need for nutritional interventions.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Anthropometry
  • Pediatric Nutrition

Background:

  • Limited anthropometric data exists for Afghan immigrant children in Iran.
  • Understanding the nutritional status of this vulnerable population is crucial for targeted health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the Body Mass Index (BMI) distribution among Afghan immigrant children aged 6-14 years in Iran.
  • To identify potential risk factors for underweight or overweight status within this population.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study involving 606 Afghan children in Shahriar County, Tehran Province, Iran.
  • Measurement of weight and height to calculate BMI.
  • Classification of BMI using Centers for Disease and Prevention Control (CDC) growth charts.

Main Results:

  • 16% of children were classified as underweight, 81.2% as normal weight, and 2.8% as overweight.
  • While some observed differences in weight status by sex, birthplace, and birth order existed, they were not statistically significant.
  • A notable percentage of underweight children suggests potential nutritional challenges.

Conclusions:

  • The high prevalence of underweight among Afghan immigrant children highlights a significant public health concern.
  • Interventional and educational programs are recommended to improve the health and nutritional status of this population.

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