Prevalence & Risk Factors of Underweight in Children Aged 6 Months to 6 Years Among Sons of Female Medical Staffs in Sana'a City, Yemen
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65693/irss.2023.v4i1.338Keywords:
Malnutrition, (Nutritional Underweight, (Children of Female Medical Staff)Abstract
Research Title
Prevalence & Risk Factors of Underweight in Children Aged 6 Months to 6 Years Among Sons of Female Medical Staffs in Sana'a City, Yemen
Keywords
Malnutrition, Nutritional Underweight, Children of Female Medical Staff, Weight-for-Age Growth Charts, Sana'a City, Yemen, Risk Factors.
Research Abstract
Background & Objectives:
This prospective descriptive cross-sectional study evaluated the prevalence of nutritional underweight and its associated risk factors among children aged 6 months to 6 years born to female staff in public hospitals across Sana'a City, Yemen. The study operated on the hypothesis that female healthcare personnel possess higher awareness regarding the causes and risks of malnutrition. Child growth was evaluated using the CDC Weight-for-Age Growth Chart.
Methodology & Sample:
The study surveyed 278 female hospital employees, including 116 nurses, 49 technicians, 49 laboratory staff, 39 general practitioners, and 27 specialists. Children with congenital anomalies or chronic illnesses were excluded. Data were gathered via structured questionnaires and interviews. Physical weight measurements were taken directly for 45% of the children, while the remaining weights were self-reported by mothers.
Key Findings:
The prevalence of nutritional underweight (weight-for-age below the 5th percentile) among children of female healthcare staff was 41.5%.
Major Associated Risk Factors:
Maternal profession as a nurse (highest prevalence at 49%).
Child age between 1 and 3 years.
Leaving children at home without a dedicated caregiver or housewife.
Maternal working shifts exceeding 12 hours per day.
Having more than two children under the age of six in the household.
Low socioeconomic status (e.g., unstable father's income, rented housing).
History of prematurity (<37 weeks), male gender, or low birth weight.
Conclusion:
Regardless of maternal educational or health literacy, extended working hours and absence from home negatively impact child growth when adequate caregiving and feeding during the mother's absence are lacking, or when compounded by economic constraints.
Main Recommendations:
Educate working mothers on preparing nutritious meals for children prior to their work shifts.
Promote family planning to avoid having more than two children under six years old, particularly for mothers working extended hours (>12 hours/day).
Ensure young children (<3 years) are not left unattended without proper caregiving, and establish national routine growth monitoring programs.
References
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