Assessment of the Nutritional Status of Children in a Rural Community of Central Edo State, South-South Part of Nigeria

Abstract

This cross sectional study assesses the nutritional status of children -as indicated by selected anthropometric parameters, in a rural community in Edo Central Senatorial Zone, South-South, Nigeria. The survey was  conducted amongst 900 primary school pupils in Esan West Local  Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. The age, sex, weight and height of the pupil, as well as selected socio-demographic characteristics of the  parents/guardian, were collected by means of a face-to-face interview and questionnaire respectively. Results showed that the overall prevalence of stunting and under-weight were 14.90% and 19.60% respectively. Stunting and under-weight were observed to be prevalent among males (16.2% and 20.8%) and age 9 – 12 years (23.2% and 32.5%). Children living with both parents and those living with mothers only, were most stunted growth and under-weight. Although Nigeria is referred to as the giant of Africa, her nutritional status remains a major public health challenge especially  amongst children. Therefore, to achieve her vision 2020, the nutritional status of children in rural communities must be improved.

Keywords: Children, Malnutrition, Growth, Nigeria.