The Analysis of Risk Factors in Severe Protein Energy Malnutrition in Order To Know Their Significance For Outcome in Children From 2 Months To 5 Years of Age

Objectives: to investigate risk factors in severe protein energy malnutrition and their significance for outcome in children from 2 months to 5 years of age. study design: descriptive. place and duration of study: this study was conducted in the department of pediatrics unit ii liaquat university hospital,jamshoro from 01-08-2010 to 29-02-2012. subjects and method: one hundred fifty two patients from 2 month to 5 years age who presented with severe protein energy malnutrition,defined according to who as presence of oedema of both feet and severe wasting (70% weight-for-height/length or <-3sd) or clinical sign of severe malnutrition,were included in study. the risk factors were evaluated and investigations were recorded on a proforma. diagnosis was based on clinical signs and anthropometric measurement like height,weight,mid upper arm circumference were taken which was compared with who height /weight or height and length reference card. the risk factors were analysed to know their significance for outcome. results: the study group comprised of 152 children ranging from 2 months to 5 years,51.3% (n=78) were male,48.6% (n=74) were female,the mean age of presentation 24.6months. the 15.7% (n=24) out of 152 either died or left in serious condition against medical advise. the risk factors the mother 66% (ill working,in competent),father 48% (ill,unemployed),parental loss 7%,large family size 43%,mixed or bottle feed,improper dilution 47%,delayed feeding of solid food or inadequate weaning 69%,chronic recurrent diarrhea 61%,recurrent respiratory infections 51%,measles 31%,pneumonia 34%,incomplete vaccinations 66% are the statistically significant for severe protein energy malnutrition and mortality. conclusion: the risk factor in order of significance are the mother (ill working,in competent),father (ill,unemployed),parental loss,large family size,mixed or bottle feed,improper dilution,delayed feeding of solid food or inadequate weaning,chronic recurrent diarrhea,recurrent respiratory infections,measles,pneumonia,incomplete vaccinations are the statistically significant for severe protein energy malnutrition and mortality.