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Prevalence of malnutrition among physically disabled children based on anthropometry data
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A Dostmohammadian   , T Neyestani * , M Abtahi , N Shariatzadeh , B Nikooyeh , M Nematy , M Maddah , D Ghodsi |
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Abstract: (8718 Views) |
| Background and Objective: Malnutrition can potentially prone a disabled child to further morbidities thus imposing further suffering to the affected child and his/her family. Present study investigates prevalence of malnutrition among physically disabled children based on anthropometry data.
Materials and Methods: A total of 290 physically disabled children aged 6- 12 yeas old, of both sexes, and from all specialized schools in Tehran, Meshed and Rasht were enrolled in a descriptive cross- sectional study. Weight and height were assessed and body mass index (BMI) was calculated for all subjects. In those disabled children whose heights could not be measured directly, height was estimated using Arm Lengh (AL) and Tibia Length (TL). Percent of low weight, thinness and short stature was determined in both disabled and healthy children using CDC standards and Z- score.
Results: Z score of weight showed that over 40% of disabled girls and boys were underweight. Comparison with anthropometric data from other studies showed that low weight was more prevalent in disabled than in non- disabled children (p<0.001). Moreover, both disabled boys and girls had significantly shorter statures than their non disabled counterparts.
Conclusions: Malnutrition (low weight and stunting) is quite prevalent among Iranian children with motor disabilities. Further prevention programs are necessary to induct.
Keywords: Malnutrition, Physically disabled children, Anthropometry data |
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| Keywords: Malnutrition, Physically disabled children, Anthropometry data |
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Full-Text [PDF 186 kb]
(3644 Downloads)
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Article type: Research |
Subject:
nutrition
Received: 2013/02/19 | Accepted: 2013/11/19 | Published: 2013/11/19
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