Association between household food insecurity and malnutrition among school aged children in Nnewi Southeast Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Malnutrition in school aged children can predispose to infectious diseases, noncommunicable diseases and death. Numerous risk factors of childhood malnutrition has been published with generation of instituted policies, yet the complications of childhood malnutrition is still not abated in our locality. Hence the need to explore the effect of house hold food insecurity (HHFIS) on childhood malnutrition.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of malnutrition and the association between HHFIS and malnutrition among 6-12-year-old primary school pupils in Nnewi Southeast Nigeria.

Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out on 270 primary school pupils. Sociodemographic data was collected using a pretested interviewer administered questionnaire. Information on food availability in the home was collected and used to grade HHFIS into food secured household, moderate food insecurity, Household food insecurity, Severe HHFIS/child hunger. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 21.0. Level of significance for tests of association was set at 5%.

Results: The result showed that 143(53%) were males and 127(47%) were females. Seventy-five (27.8%) were wasted, 21(7.8%) had severe wasting, 18(6.7%) had underweight, 17(6.3%) were overweight, while 9(3.3%) had obesity and 3(1.1%) were stunted. Low Socio-Economic Class (SEC) and HHFIS, were associated with under-nutrition. (p < 0.05) While high SEC and HHFIS were associated with overweight/obesity (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The prevalence of under nutrition was high among 6-12 year old school children in Nnewi. Prompt and adequate provision of household food security can help mitigate the impact of malnutrition in the sub region.