Abstract

PRETO, Clara et al. Evaluation of factors associated with child undernutrition in Guinea-Bissau. Acta Port Nutr [online]. 2018, n.12, pp.14-17. ISSN 2183-5985.  https://doi.org/10.21011/apn.2018.1203.

Introdution: Undernutrition is a major cause of death worldwide in children under five. Objectives: Evaluate the factors associated with severe acute undernutrition in children under five years hospitalized at Cumura Hospital in Guinea-Bissau. Methodology: Observational, case-control study, conducted from April to May 2014. All children under five years hospitalized with severe acute undernutrition, during the study period, were included as cases (Group A, n = 52). For each case was selected a control, chosen as the first child of the same age admitted after the case, for other medical problems and without undernutrition (Group B, n = 52). A questionnaire that included socioeconomic and demographic data and information on feeding practices was applied. Descriptive and comparative data analysis was accomplished. Results: From the univariate analysis of the possible socioeconomic, demographic and dietary factors associated with severe acute undernutrition, we found statistically significant differences, between the two groups, regarding polygamy (Group A: 55.1%, Group B: 26.5%, p=0.004), paternal age (Group A: 42.5 ± 14.9, Group B 36.67 ± 7.9, p=0.015), low family income (Group A: 30.8%, Group B: 9.6%; = 0.007), maternal illiteracy (Group A: 71.2%, Group B: 42.3%, p=0.003), absence of exclusive maternal feeding (Group A: 38.5%; Group B: 15.4%; p=0.008), varied diet (Group A: 65.4%; Group B: 25%; p< 0.001) and a lower number of meals per day (≤3meals/day - Group A: 75%; Group B: 51.9%; p=0.015). However, after multivariate analysis, only the absence of exclusive maternal feeding and absence of varied feeding were associated factors with DAG (p = 0.025 and p <0.001 respectively). Conclusions: Although the causes of severe acute undernutrition in Guinea-Bissau are complex, dietary factors appear to be preponderant. Thus, it is essential to invest in the citizen education through nutritional education campaigns.

Keywords : Children; Severe acute undernutrition; Associated factors; Guinea-Bissau.

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