An Analysis of Anthropometric Measurements of Children Enrolled in Programs for Managing Acute Malnutrition, in Kwale County, Kenya

Introduction: Malnutrition remains an important public health challenge in developing countries. Approximately, each year, 3 million children below 5 years old die due to malnutrition. Evidence-based nutrition programs depend on accurate estimates of malnutrition derived from anthropometric data collected from nutrition centers for therapeutic feeding. Anthropometric information can be used to determine an individual's nutritional status and prevalence of malnutrition, and subsequently provide the essential medical and nutritional care for children as a part of the management of malnutrition. Aim of our study was to track progress of anthropometric measurements of malnourished children enrolled in therapeutic feeding programs from the point of admission up to a period of four months. Methods: This was an observational cohort study or 7 months for 227 malnourished children admitted to the therapeutic feeding program in Kwale County, Kenya. Anthropometric measurements were taken at admission, 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th months in the program. Progress of WAZ, HAZ, MUAC and WHZ of malnourished children were later analysed using WHO AnthroPlus. Results: At admission, 30% of children were at risk of malnutrition; 34% of children with moderate to acute stages of malnutrition; 36% of children suffering from severe acute malnutrition. In the course of the therapeutical feeding program, protein food supplements were provided to the child and family as such. This led to a decrease in prevalence of severe acute malnutrition of 19% after 4 months in the nutritional program. Progress in all anthropometric parameters after 4 months were reported, with these median values: WAZ z-score (-2.81 to -1.15); HAZ z-score (-2.35 to 1.00); MUAC z-score (2.47 to -1.68); WHZ z-score (-2.22 to -0.71). Conclusion: We conclude that anthropometric measurements of children significantly improves after four months of intensive therapeutic feeding of malnourished children. In this study the results indicate that comprehensive care for malnourished children, which includes: correct and accurate anthropometric measurements; providing treatment; regular monitoring of the children; collaboration with caretakers of the children, with health workers in the rural health facilities; with community health workers in communities lead to improved child nutrition.