Nutritional status of children attended in day-care-centers and food (in)security of their families

Dec 2012

[Article in Portuguese]

Souza MM, Pedraza DF, Menezes TN.

Source

Universidade Estadual da Paraíba, Campina Grande, PB, 58400-265, maerciomota@bol.com.br.

Abstract

The scope of this study was to examine associated factors with overweight, stunting and underweight in children attending state day care centers of João Pessoa, as well as to describe the situation of food (in)security of their families. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 250 children. Socioeconomic, maternal and child variables were studied. The nutritional status of children was evaluated considering the height-for-age and weight-for-height indices. Household food security was assessed using the Brazilian Scale of Food Insecurity. The proportions of stunting, underweight and overweight were 7.6%, 1.6% and 6.4% respectively. The associated factors with short stature were low maternal stature and incomplete vaccination. In relation to low weight, the associated factor was maternal age under 20 years. The overweight child was associated with excessive maternal weight and maternal short stature. In 59.6% of families, there was food and nutrition insecurity, the mild form being more frequent (32.4%). Overweight and stunting were found to be the most common nutritional disorders in this study, constituting priorities that should be considered in current public policies.

PubMed

**I have included this article as most children now days are IN day care centers, even those with lymphedema.**

How to Assess the Nutritional Status of my Patient How to Assess the Nutritional Status of my Patient How to Assess the Nutritional Status of my Pa

How to Assess the Nutritional Status of my Patient

Feb 2012

[Article in German]

Leuenberger MS, Joray ML, Kurmann S, Stanga Z.

Source

Poliklinik für Endokrinologie, Diabetologie und Klinische Ernährung, Universitätsspital Bern.

Abstract

Protein-energy-malnutrition is a growing problem in industrialised countries. Many studies have found malnourishment in 20-60% of hospitalized medical or surgical patients, as well as out-patients. Malnutrition negatively influences patients' prognosis, immune system, muscle strength, and quality of life. As it is a largely treatable co-morbidity, systematic screening for malnutrition and effective management will improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. Early diagnosis and assessment depends on a simple and standardised screening tool that identifies at-risk patients, allowing the medical team in charge to solve patients' nutritional problems with an interdisciplinary approach.

PubMed