Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Malnutrition Among Children Under 5 Years in Rural District Jalaun: A Cross-Sectional Study (Code-T-0152)

Introduction: Malnutrition remains a significant public health issue, particularly in rural areas, and is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five years of age. Malnutrition impacts growth, cognitive development, and immune function, posing long-term health risks. Understanding its prevalence and associated risk factors is crucial for implementing effective interventions in rural settings.

Aims and Objectives:

Aim:

To find out the prevalence and associated risk factors of malnutrition among under 5 years children in rural area of District Jalaun.

Objectives:

1. To identify the socio-demographic factors of the study population.
2. To estimate the prevalence of malnutrition of the study population.
3. To find out thefactors associated with malnutritionamong the study population.
4. To make necessary recommendations based on the results of present study.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Jalaun district, involving 400 children aged 6 months to 5 years. Nutritional status was assessed using the World Health Organization (WHO) growth standards, and anthropometric measurements (weight-for-age, height-for-age, weight-for-height) were recorded. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, breastfeeding practices, dietary intake, maternal education, and sanitation were collected through structured interviews. Statistical analysis was performed to identify the prevalence and risk factors associated with malnutrition.

Results: The prevalence of malnutrition (underweight, stunting, and wasting) was found to be 45%. Stunting (35%) was the most common form of malnutrition, followed by underweight (30%) and wasting (15%). Key risk factors for malnutrition included inadequate breastfeeding practices, poor maternal education, low household income, and lack of access to clean water and sanitation.

Conclusion: Malnutrition is highly prevalent among children under 5 years in rural Jalaun. Targeted interventions addressing maternal education, infant feeding practices, and improved sanitation are essential to reduce malnutrition and its long-term consequences.

Keywords: Malnutrition, Prevalence, Risk factors, Under-5 children, Rural area, Jalaun district.