Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2026
Scanning Skeletal Remains for Bone Mineral Density in Forensic Contexts
Published on: January 29, 2018
[Factors associated with malnutrition in children aged under five years in Lubumbashi (DRC)]
Abdon W M Mukatay1, Prosper M K Kalenga, Michèle Dramaix
1Ecole de Santé Publique, Université de Lubumbashi, Congo. muk_ab@yahoo.fr
Insights
Child malnutrition in DR Congo remains high, with stunting affecting 33.5% of children under five. Key predictors include low maternal education and poor water access, highlighting critical areas for intervention.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Nutrition Science
Context:
- Assesses child nutritional status in Lubumbashi, DR Congo, post-armed conflict (1998-2003).
- Examines 1963 children under five, analyzing anthropometric data and living conditions.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the nutritional status of young children in a post-conflict setting.
- To identify significant predictors of stunting and emaciation in children under five.
Summary:
- High prevalence of stunting (33.5%) and low prevalence of emaciation (3.8%) were observed.
- Multivariate logistic regression identified low maternal education, lack of piped water, male gender, and older age (>11 months) as predictors of stunting.
- Decreased appetite, diarrhea, and younger age (<12 months) predicted emaciation.
Impact:
- Findings highlight the need for targeted interventions addressing socioeconomic and environmental factors to combat child malnutrition.
- Results can inform public health strategies to reduce child mortality and morbidity in vulnerable populations.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering maternal education and access to basic amenities in child health programs.
Abstract:
Nutritional status of children is a global indicator of children's well-being and, indirectly, of the community's well-being. The first objective of this work is to assess the nutritional status of children under five years-old living in a suburb of the city of Lubumbashi, DR Congo, at the end of the 1998-2003 armed conflict. The second objective aims to identify some predictors of malnutrition. A multivariate logistic regression was applied to the results of a cross-sectional survey of 1963 children from selected households. In addition to the anthropometric variables, living conditions were also used. We observed 33.5% stunted growth and 3.8% emaciation. After logistic regression, a low maternal educational level (less than 7 years), the absence of a drinking water tap available in the house or yard, male gender, and age of children ( > 11 months) were all significantly associated with increased risk of stunted growth. Moreover, decreased appetite, diarrhea and age of children ( < 12 months) were significant predictors of emaciation. Compared to the classification of the World Health Organization, our results indicate that the prevalence of stunting is high and the prevalence of emaciation is low. Interventions against malnutrition should consider the various predictors discussed in this study in order to reduce mortality and morbidity in children and contribute to their well-being.
Related Concept Videos
01:18Factors Affecting Illness
For instance, risk factors are connected to illness, disability,...
01:26Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin create...
01:19Factors Affecting Pulmonary Ventilation
Alveolar Surface Tension
The alveolar fluid lines the luminal surface of the alveoli and exerts a force called surface tension. This force is caused by the polar water molecules in the liquid being more strongly attracted to each...
01:20Lifestyle Factors and Health
Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical activity, whether through structured exercise or casual activities like walking, biking, or dancing, is a cornerstone of a...
01:17Factors Affecting Renal Clearance: Renal Impairment
One condition associated with renal failure is uremia. Uremia is characterized by impaired glomerular filtration and fluid accumulation in the body. This condition hinders the renal clearance of drugs, resulting in drug accumulation and potential...
01:19Factors Affecting Drug Distribution: Miscellaneous Factors
Age plays a significant role due to differences in body composition among different age groups. Infants, for instance, have a higher proportion of total body water and lower albumin levels, a protein that binds drugs in the bloodstream. This unique composition in infants enhances the...