Nutritional Status Of Under-Five Children In An Urban Community In Benin-City

Abstract

Background: It is estimated that malnutrition contributes to over 50% of mortality among under-five children in Nigeria. Malnourished children have lower resistance to infection and are more likely to die from common childhood diseases.
Objective: To determine the nutritional status of under-five children in Okhoro, an urban community in Egor LGA of Edo State.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 513 under-five children selected by simple random sampling. Pre-tested, semi-structured and researcheradministered questionnaire was the tool for data collection. Information was collected on socio-demographic characteristics, breast-feeding pattern, and anthropometric indices.
Results: Mean duration of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding were 11.3 + 5.4 months and 5.2 + 1.8 months, respectively. About 28.1% of the children were underweight while 22.6% were stunted. Maternal educational status was associated with correct practice of exclusive breast-feeding but not related to nutritional status of children. Female gender and correct practice of exclusive breast-feeding were significantly associated with good nutritional status, (p < 0.05).                                       Conclusion: High levels of underweight and stunting exist in this urban community. The need for more vigorous nutrition education cannot be over-emphasized.

Keywords: Nutritional Status, Under-five.