Risk factors associated with wasting among children aged 6 to 24 months old in Gaza strip

Abstract

Wasting contributes to morbidity and mortality for children under 5 years of age particularly in the developing countries. This study identified the various risk factors associated with wasting among children aged 6 to 24 months old in Gaza Strip. The study sample consisted of 98 wasted children and 98 control children. A questionnaire interview was used. The World Health Organization Anthro software for assessing nutritional status of the world's children was applied. Data were computer analyzed using SPSS/PC statistical package version 21. Anthropometric data showed that birth weight was significantly lower in cases than controls (2.9±0.8 versus 3.1±0.6 kg, P= 0.030). Weight and height were also significantly decreased in cases (P= 0.000). Wasting was significantly higher among children of less educated mothers (χ2= 8.110, P= 0.044) and among children of less family income (OR= 4.1, P= 0.000). Children not received nutritional help or donation had more frequent wasting than those did (P= 0.004). Wasting was significantly higher among non-exclusively breastfed children (OR= 2.1, P= 0.010) and among children who breastfed≤ 12 months (P= 0.021). Early introduction of complementary food increased wasting by 2.8 times (OR= 2.8, P= 0.001). Children with poor appetite had highest frequency of wasting (χ2= 6.139, P= 0.046). Wasting was significantly higher in respiratory and gastrointestinal tract infected children [OR= 2.9, P= 0.000 and OR= 3.1, P= 0.000, respectively). In conclusion, less income, not receive nutritional help or donation, non-exclusive breastfeeding and breastfeeding duration of≤ 12 months, early start of …