Work

Prevalence and factors associated with malnutrition among children living 1 with Down syndrome in Rwanda: A cross-sectional study

Year: 2026

Type: preprint

Abstract: We assessed the prevalence and determinants of malnutrition among children with Down syndrome (DS) in Rwanda. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 313 children with DS aged 6 months to 18 years using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed through univariate, bivariate, and multivariate regression analyses. Overall, 30% of children were overweight/obese, 72% stunted, 15% thin, and 47% underweight; 7% had the double burden of malnutrition. Underweight was less likely when fathers were casual laborers (AOR=0.38; CI: 0.18–0.82) but more likely in polygamous households (AOR=3.30; CI:1.26–8.62). Maternal illiteracy increased risks of both underweight (AOR=2.34; CI:1.01–5.40) and stunting (AOR=2.24; CI:1.02–4.92). Age was a strong predictor of malnutrition: children 24– 59 months (AOR=2.45; CI:1.12–5.35), 6–12 years (AOR=2.93; CI:1.41–6.10), and 13–18 years (AOR=5.52; CI:2.21–13.74) were more likely to be stunted or overweight. Conversely, younger children had lower odds of thinness compared to overweight: 6–23 months (AOR=0.24; CI:0.10–0.62), 24–59 months (AOR=0.40; CI:0.18–0.90), and 6–12 years (AOR=0.27; CI:0.14–0.50). Malnutrition, especially stunting, is highly prevalent among Rwandan children with DS. Socioeconomic conditions, parental education, and household characteristics strongly influence outcomes. Interventions should integrate nutrition, parental education, and inclusive healthcare strategies.

Source: Research Square

DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-7464432/v1