A Preliminary Single-Centre Study on the Risk Factors Associated with Persistent Feeding Disorders in Children

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Child Psychology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Childhood feeding disorders (PFDs) present a significant epidemiological challenge.
• Understanding risk factors is crucial for effective intervention and management of PFDs.
• Both psychosocial and biological factors are implicated in the development and persistence of PFDs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify risk factors associated with the persistence of pediatric feeding disorders.
• To explore the influence of psychosocial and biological elements on PFD outcomes.
• To differentiate characteristics between children with persistent versus resolved feeding disorders.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective cross-sectional study design was employed, with data collected at two distinct time points (Stage I and Stage II) approximately three years apart.
• The study included 56 hospitalized children, divided into Group A (persistent PFDs) and Group B (resolved PFDs).
• Data analysis focused on comparing demographic, clinical, and feeding behavior variables between the two groups.

Main Results:

• A significant difference in wasting prevalence was observed at Stage II, with higher rates in the persistent PFD group (48.7% vs. 17.6%, p=0.029).
• Feeding disorders related to non-milk foods were significantly more prevalent in the persistent group (83.8% vs. 42.9%, p=0.011).
• Children with resolved PFDs were more likely to consume foods of all consistencies by one year of age (64.3% vs. 27%, p=0.036).

Conclusions:

• Pediatric feeding disorders represent a heterogeneous clinical presentation.
• Early onset during exclusive breastfeeding and difficulties with non-milk foods are associated with persistent PFDs.
• Consumption of diverse food consistencies by one year of age indicates a more favorable prognosis for children with feeding disorders.