Một số yếu tố liên quan đến tình trạng suy dinh dưỡng của trẻ từ 6–60 tháng tuổi tại Khoa Nhi, Bệnh viện Đa khoa huyện Quốc Oai năm 2023

Childhood malnutrition remains a critical public health challenge, particularly in developing nations such as Vietnam, with significant long-term consequences for physical, cognitive, and immune development. Despite national progress in reducing rates of underweight and stunting, disparities persist, notably in rural and mountainous regions. Understanding the specific factors contributing to malnutrition is crucial for effective intervention strategies. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of malnutrition among children aged 6-60 months attending the Pediatric Department of Quoc Oai District General Hospital in 2023. By identifying key determinants such as diet and weaning practices, this research seeks to provide valuable insights for targeted nutritional education and improved child healthcare in the local community.

Healthcare professionals, public health officials, policymakers, and researchers focused on child nutrition and pediatric health in Vietnam, particularly those working in community and district-level healthcare settings.

This study employed a cross-sectional descriptive design to examine the prevalence and associated factors of malnutrition in 341 children aged 6-60 months at the Pediatric Department of Quoc Oai District General Hospital from March to September 2023. Data collection encompassed nutritional status, feeding practices, 24-hour dietary intake, and medical history. The findings revealed a significant burden of malnutrition, with prevalence rates of 7.9% for underweight, 9.1% for stunting, and 9.1% for wasting. Multivariate logistic regression identified several key factors independently associated with malnutrition. Specifically, early weaning before 18 months significantly increased the risk (OR = 3.77, p < 0.05), highlighting the importance of prolonged breastfeeding. A lack of dietary diversity, defined as consuming fewer than five out of eight food groups, also posed a substantial risk (OR = 2.53, p < 0.05). Furthermore, recent illness within the past three months (p < 0.05) and household income below 3 million VND/month (p < 0.05) were found to be significant contributing factors. The study concludes that malnutrition in this pediatric population is strongly linked to suboptimal feeding practices, inadequate dietary intake, recurrent illness, and socioeconomic disparities. These results underscore the urgent need for comprehensive interventions, including strengthening nutritional education for parents, promoting sustained breastfeeding, and ensuring access to a diverse and adequate diet to improve the nutritional status and overall health of young children in the Quoc Oai district. The implications extend to public health policy and clinical practice, advocating for integrated approaches that address both immediate nutritional needs and underlying socioeconomic determinants.