PREVALENCE OF UNDERWEIGHT, STUNTING AND WASTING AMONG CHILDREN IN QAZVIN, IRAN

Background and Aim: Malnutrition and growth impairment are among the most common problems in children of developing countries. The aim of present study was to determine underweight, stunting, and wasting status in children less than 2 years in Qazvin (Iran) in 2007.Materials and Methods: In this study, 804 children aged between 0-24 months were evaluated. Data were collected through both family and child s health records.Results: According to World Health Organization (WHO) standard underweight, stunting, and wasting were observed in 11.7%, 11.5%, and 0.7% of the children, respectively. There was a significant correlation between underweight and the family size and birth order and also between stunting and family size, birth order, and parent education (p 0.05).Conclusion: This study revealed that the most common types of growth impairment in children under two years of age are underweight and stunting. Interventional measures are recommended.