Research Journal of Medical Sciences
ISSN: Online 1993-6095ISSN: Print 1815-9346
Abstract
Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in developing regions with limited healthcare resources. Affecting millions of children worldwide, SAM is characterized by a very low weight for height, severe wasting, or nutritional edema. This study investigates the prevalence of complications in children aged 6 months to 5 years suffering from SAM in Bhagalpur, Bihar, India. This descriptive cross‐sectional study was conducted at Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital (JLNMCH), Bhagalpur, from October 2020 to July 2021. A total of 78 children aged 6 months to 5 years diagnosed with SAM were enrolled. Data collection involved demographic details, clinical history, physical examinations and laboratory investigations. Standard treatment protocols were followed and data were analyzed using SPSS software version 25.0, with descriptive statistics and chi‐square tests employed to assess associations. The majority of the children were between 13‐24 months (32.1%) and 6‐12 months (28.2%). Males constituted 56.4% of the subjects and 69.2% belonged to low‐income families. Respiratory infections were the most common complication (57.7%), followed by diarrhea (50.0%), electrolyte imbalances (41.0%), micronutrient deficiencies (61.5%), and edema (25.6%). Laboratory findings indicated widespread anemia, low serum sodium and potassium levels, and reduced serum albumin and zinc levels. Anthropometric measurements showed severe wasting and stunting. Treatment outcomes included a 66.7% recovery rate, 12.8% referrals and a 10.3% mortality rate. The study highlights the high prevalence of complications associated with severe acute malnutrition among children in Bhagalpur. The findings emphasize the need for integrated healthcare strategies addressing both nutritional and medical needs. Early intervention, adequate healthcare resources, and targeted nutritional programs are crucial to improving health outcomes in children with SAM. Continued research and policy efforts are essential to combat malnutrition and enhance child health and survival in vulnerable populations.
How to cite this article:
Satish Kumar, Vimal Kumar, Kishor Kumar Sinha and Ankur Priyadarshi. Study of Prevalence of Complications in Severe Acute Malnutrition.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.36478/makrjms.2023.12.561.566
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.36478/makrjms.2023.12.561.566