Health risks of under-five children with protein- energy malnutrition at a health Centre in Ngor-Okpala L.G.A of Imo State
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background: Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is an acute form of malnutrition caused by inadequate intake of calories and proteins and remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children in Nigeria. This study assessed the health risks associated with protein-energy malnutrition among under-five children managed at a health centre in Ngor-Okpala Local Government Area, Imo State. Method: The descriptive research design was adopted for the study, and a total of 350 respondents were sampled. The data were obtained through a structured questionnaire. Results: The results indicated that 62.00% and 41.00% of the children were at health risk due to PEM. Parental education level, parity, poverty, and ignorance were some of the socio-demographic factors affecting PEM. (X² = 3.357, df = 2, p = 0.000) indicated that there was a significant relationship between PEM and parental socio-demographic background. Conclusion: These findings point out that PEM poses serious health risks, while targeted health education programs focusing on nutrition by caregivers are of utmost urgency in the study area. Community-based interventions on proper nutrition can also greatly help to minimize the health risks of malnutrition in under-five children.
Authors: Melah, Amarachi Grace, Aghworo, Eloho Mathilda, Nwachukwu, Favour Chinemerem, Ekekwe, Adaora Chiamaka, Popoola, Covenant Mosetoluwa, Salako, Mautin Oluwatosin, Ige, Mark Akinola, Adewoye, Mary Adebimpe, Ale, Olubukola Sarah, Nneji, Patricia Okwuchi
Language: English
Subfield: Nutrition and Dietetics
Field: Nursing
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7083201234
FWCI:
Cites:
Cited by:
Related to: