The role of feeding practices as risk factors in children for Severe Acute Malnutrition and Moderate Acute Malnutrition in central India

Dr Garima Agrawal Varshney; DR AJIT SOLANKI

Volume : VII, Issue : IV, April - 2018

The role of feeding practices as risk factors in children for Severe Acute Malnutrition and Moderate Acute Malnutrition in central India

Dr Garima Agrawal Varshney, Dr Ajit Solanki

Abstract :

Background:Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) is emerging as a silent threat to global development. Improper feeding practices along with lack of knowledge regarding nutritional requirements of child are an important risk factor for SAM. Aim of the study was to identify various feeding practices in hospitalised undernourished children.

Methods: All hospitalised children between age 6m to 3 years who fulfil the inclusion criteria. Data was recorded and analysed.

ResultsInitiation of BF after 24hrs of birth, not practicing exclusive east feeding , total duration of east feeds given to the child < 12 months, giving top milk in initial 6m of life , dilution of top milk , practice of bottle feeding , initiation of BF after 9m of age , and not east feeding the child when complementary feeds are started were found to be statistically significant.

Conclusion:SAM in children can be prevented with the maternal education and councilling regarding appropriate feeding practices.