Baseline assessment for addressing acute malnutrition by public-health staff in Cambodia.
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Date
2004-06-12
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Abstract
The objective of this study was to formulate appropriate responses by the public-health sector to reduce acute malnutrition among children in Cambodia. A cross-sectional survey to identify wasting together with a simple wealth-ranking exercise was conducted. Thereafter, separate focus-group discussions were also conducted with mothers of malnourished and non-malnourished children, who belonged to the poorest strata, to identify coping mechanisms and to assess feeding and hygiene practices. There was no statistical correlation between wasting and socioseconomic status (df=3, p=0.06). Reported feeding practices were poor, including not giving of colostrum, too early introduction of weaning, low feeding frequency, and late introduction of nutritious foods. Healthcare-seeking behaviour appeared inadequate, and hand-washing with soap was not practised. Acute malnutrition was mainly related to these factors rather than to food insecurity. An education campaign in tandem with peer-counselling would be the most appropriate option.
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Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition.
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Jacobs B, Roberts E. Baseline assessment for addressing acute malnutrition by public-health staff in Cambodia. Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition. 2004 Jun; 22(2): 212-9