Nutritional Status Of Preschool Children (6-24 Months) In Umuahia North Local Government Area Of Abia State

ABSTRACT

The study was conducted in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State to determine the nutritional status of preschool children. Data was drawn li-om I 20 respondents (58 males and 62 females). A well structured questionnaire was administered and information collected on personal data. Anthropometric measurements of height, weight, chest circumference, head circumference were taken and were compared with WHO (2005) standards. Dietary assessment was based on weighed food intake and twenty four hours recall. The nutrient intakes cre compared with FAO (1985). Correlation analysis was done to determine the relationship between the nutritional status of the children and their food habits. sing weight-for-age as an indicator of nutritional status, 8.6% of the males and 3•2U/0 of the females were severely stunted; while 25.9% males and 33.9% females were stunted. Nutrition education should help to educate mothers on the importance of nutritious and adequate food on the body growth of their children as to improve their nutritional status.