Malnutrition Status in Children of Shahroud, Iran

Introduction: Despite its decreasing prevalence in recent years, malnutrition is still an important health problem in many regions of Iran. We may have estimates of malnutrition in Shahroud district based on national studies, but there is not any information about its status in different parts of Shahroud. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of wasting, underweight and stunting in less- than- 6 year- old children in Shahroud. Methods: Through cluster sampling, 1395 children from 13 different districts of Shahroud were randomly selected and they were measured for their weight and height. Their mothers were also interviewed for socio-nutritional data. Malnutrition indices were computed based on WHO’s reference data in 2007 through Anthro software. Results: Prevalence of wasting, underweight and stunting (below -2 Z-Scores) was 4.7%, 5.7% and 10.3%, respectively. Prevalence of overweight (>+2 Z-Scores) was 4% according to BMI for age index. Malnutrition indices were distributed non-homogenously in different parts of Shahroud; for example stunting was as high as 22% in Kalpoosh and Biarjemand of the district. Conclusion: Malnutrition was more prevalent in Shahroud, compared to other regions of Semnan province and large disparities were found in its distribution over different parts of city. Comprehensive local interventions seem necessary.