•  
  •  
 

Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

Objectives The objective of this study was to study the prevalence of stunted growth in children under 5 years of age (in primary healthcare) in a rural area, in Qualyoubia governorate. Background Stunting remains an important problem in Egypt, where ∼ one-third of children under 5 years of age are affected. Patients and methods This is a cross-sectional study that was conducted on 1255 cases. All studied children were subjected to history taking, complete physical examination [height (cm), length (cm), weight (kg)], and laboratory investigations (measurement of hemoglobin level). Then, the stunting group was compared with the control group regarding their different characteristics according to national Egyptian growth chart. Results The prevalence of stunted growth in children under 5 years of age was 13.32%; stunted growth was significantly associated with age of children (stunting was more in children aged <24 months) (P = 0.005), socioeconomic level (P = 0.004), family history of short stature (P < 0.05), family size more than five (P = 0.004), and low hemoglobin level (P < 0.001). Conclusion The prevalence of stunted growth in children under 5 years of age attending primary healthcare in a rural area in Qualyoubia governorate was 13.32%.

Download

Share

COinS