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Ocular Morbidity Among Children With Protein Energy Malnutrition in Northwest Nigeria

Asimau Eivovo Idris Zubairu1, Kehinde Kabir Oladigbolu1, Elsie Samaila1

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria.

Journal of the West African College of Surgeons
|October 7, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Protein energy malnutrition (PEM) in Nigerian children significantly increases the risk of ocular problems, including vision impairment. Early detection and intervention are crucial to prevent irreversible blindness from PEM.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatrics
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Protein energy malnutrition (PEM) is a significant health issue in Nigeria, particularly in the northern regions.
  • Previous studies have linked PEM to ocular morbidity and blindness, but recent data is scarce.
  • This study aims to provide current insights into the ocular manifestations of PEM in Northern Nigeria.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the prevalence and types of ocular abnormalities in children with PEM compared to well-nourished children.
  • To establish a contemporary baseline for ocular complications associated with PEM in Northern Nigeria.
  • To highlight the link between PEM and visual impairment.

Main Methods:

  • A comparative, cross-sectional study involving 400 children aged 6-59 months (200 with PEM, 200 without).
  • Detailed ocular examinations including visual acuity, adnexae, anterior, and posterior segments.
  • Data collected via structured proforma and analyzed using SPSS and WinPepi software.

Main Results:

  • Children with PEM exhibited significantly higher rates of abnormal ocular findings (46.5%) compared to the non-malnourished group (24%).
  • Common findings in the PEM group included infective conjunctivitis (35.5%), lid edema (11%), xerophthalmia (6%), and visual impairment (3%).
  • PEM was associated with an odds ratio of 2.91 for ocular abnormalities.

Conclusions:

  • Protein energy malnutrition continues to be a significant cause of ocular morbidity in Nigerian children.
  • PEM can lead to severe eye conditions, including xerophthalmia and visual impairment.
  • There is a potential for progression to irreversible blindness if PEM-related ocular complications are not addressed.
Abstract

Keywords:
Blindnessocular manifestationsprotein energy malnutrition

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