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Major factors responsible for child malnutrition: A review

Noor Shahid1, Faiza Salman1, Mahnaz Makhdum2

  • 1Department of Medical Education, Avicenna Medical College and Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan.

JPMA. the Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association
|May 4, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Child malnutrition, including stunting and wasting, is prevalent in Pakistan. Maternal education and family economic status are key factors influencing child nutrition outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Pediatrics
  • Nutrition Science

Background:

  • Child malnutrition, characterized by stunting, wasting, and underweight, remains a significant public health concern in Pakistan.
  • Prevalence of malnutrition and associated factors require examination to inform effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review existing research on child malnutrition in Pakistan.
  • To identify key factors associated with malnutrition, including gender discrimination and socioeconomic determinants.
  • To assess the impact of malnutrition on child health outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • A narrative review of 12 articles published within the last five years focusing on child malnutrition in Pakistan.
  • Utilized World Health Organization (WHO) z-scores for assessing stunting and wasting.
  • Included comparative analysis with studies from other South Asian countries.

Main Results:

  • Maternal health and education were identified as critical factors influencing child malnutrition.
  • No significant gender-based disparities were found in child malnutrition rates.
  • Family economic conditions and financial status significantly correlated with malnutrition prevalence.

Conclusions:

  • Improving maternal health and education is crucial for reducing child malnutrition in Pakistan.
  • Socioeconomic factors play a substantial role in the nutritional status of children.
  • Addressing child malnutrition requires a multi-faceted approach considering maternal and economic determinants.

Keywords:
Child health, Malnutrition, Maternal health, Growth disorders.

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