Prevalence Survey Of Malnutrition And Analysis Of Influencing Factors Among 6-59 Months Old Children In Kapilvastu District Of Nepal

Objectives: Malnutrition is one of the leading cause of child morbidity and mortality in developing countries like Nepal.The objectives of this study were to assess the prevalence and factors associated with malnutrition among 6-59-months old children in Kapilvastu district,Nepal.Methods: This study was a descriptive cross-sectional study done between April 2019 to January 2020 in Kapilvastu.A total of 369 children of age group 6-59 months were selected by using a random sampling technique;anthropometric measurement was performed to find the nutritional status of children.A semi-structure questionnaire in a face to face interview was used to collect required information.WHO Anthro version 3.2.2 and SPSS version 22 were used to analyze data.Results: Prevalence of wasting,stunting and underweight were found to be 18.4%,and 36%29.8% respectively.The prevalence of wasting was similar in males 18% and females 18.9%while the prevalence of stunting and underweight were greater in males 39.5% and 32.5% than that of females 31.95% and 26.6% respectively.Factors like Mothers’ education,months of breast feeding,number of ANC visit were associated with malnutrition.Conclusions: The finding showed that there is still a high prevalence of malnutrition among children under five of Kapilvastu district of Nepal.The main factors associated are mothers’ education status,number of ANC visits,breastfeeding after birth.So,focusing on associated factors,emphasis should be provided on health extension program which includes maternal education and child feeding practice.