1.  Peer Reviewed Title: Nepal 2006: Results from the Demographic and Health Survey. Source: Studies in Family Planning. 2009 Mar;40(1):71-76. Abstract: The Nepal Demographic and Health Survey 2006 (NDHS 2006) was conducted by the Ministry of Health and Population of Nepal with technical assistance from Macro International. Data for the nationally representative NDHS 2006 were collected from 8,707 households, and complete interviews were conducted with 10,793 women aged 15-49 and 4,397 men aged 15-59. The fieldwork took place from 5 February to 18 August 2006. The summary statistics presented were taken from the Nepal country report. Language: English Keywords: NEPAL | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | KAP SURVEYS | POPULATION | HEALTH STATUS INDEXES | FERTILITY | CONTRACEPTION | CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS CHOSEN | CONTRACEPTIVE PREVALENCE | MARITAL STATUS | CHILD NUTRITION | HIV TRANSMISSION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Health | Family Planning | Contraceptive Usage | Nuptiality | Nutrition | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases Document Number: 341083 |
| 2. Peer Reviewed Title: Swaziland 2006-07: Results from the Demographic and Health Survey. Source: Studies in Family Planning. 2009 Mar;40(1):77-82. Abstract: The Swaziland Demographic and Health Survey 2006-07 (SDHS 2006-07) was conducted by the Central Statistical Office of Swaziland with technical assistance from Macro International. Data for the nationally representative SDHS 2006-07 were collected from 4,843 households, and complete interviews were conducted with 4,987 women aged 15-49 and 4,156 men aged 15-49. The fieldwork took place from July 2006 to March 2007. The summary statistics presented below were taken from the Swaziland country report,1 with exceptions as noted. Language: English Keywords: SWAZILAND | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | KAP SURVEYS | POPULATION | HEALTH STATUS INDEXES | FERTILITY | CONTRACEPTION | CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS CHOSEN | CONTRACEPTIVE PREVALENCE | MARITAL STATUS | CHILD NUTRITION | HIV TRANSMISSION | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Health | Family Planning | Contraceptive Usage | Nuptiality | Nutrition | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases Document Number: 341084 |
| 3. Title: Effectiveness of a community-based intervention to improve nutrition in young children in Senegal: a difference in difference analysis. Author: Alderman H; Ndiaye B; Linnemayr S; Ka A; Rokx C; Dieng K; Mulder-Sibanda M Source: Public Health Nutrition. 2009 May;12(5):667-73. Abstract: There are few studies of community growth promotion as a means of addressing malnutrition that are based on longitudinal analysis of large-scale programmes with adequate controls to construct a counterfactual. The current study uses a difference in difference comparison of cohorts to assess the impact on the proportion of underweight children who lived in villages receiving services provided by the Senegal Nutrition Enhancement Project between 2004 and 2006. The project, designed to extend nutrition and growth promotion intervention into rural areas through non-governmental organisation service providers, significantly lowered the risk of a child having a weight more than 2 sd below international norms. The odds ratio of being underweight for children in programme villages after introduction of the intervention was 0.83 (95% CI 0.686, 1.000), after controlling for regional trends and village and household characteristics. Most measured aspects of health care and health seeking behaviour improved in the treatment relative to the control. Language: English Keywords: SENEGAL | RESEARCH REPORT | COHORT ANALYSIS | RURAL POPULATION | CHILD NUTRITION | INTERVENTIONS | NUTRITION PROGRAMS | PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS | BODY WEIGHT | COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES | PROMOTION | BEHAVIOR CHANGE | GROWTH | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Nutrition | Health | Programs | Organization and Administration | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Program Evaluation | Physiology | Biology | Marketing | Economic Factors | Behavior | Child Development Document Number: 342116 |
| 4. Title: Postpartum traditions and nutrition practices among urban Lao women and their infants in Vientiane, Lao PDR. Author: Barennes H; Simmala C; Odermatt P; Thaybouavone T; Vallee J; Martinez-Aussel B; Newton PN; Strobel M Source: European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2009 Mar;63(3):323-31. Abstract: BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: To assess the traditional postpartum practices, mother and child nutritional status and associated factors. SUBJECTS/METHODS: A cross-sectional study in 41 randomly selected villages on the outskirts of Vientiane capital city, Lao PDR (Laos). 300 pairs of infants (< 6 months of age) and their mothers were enrolled. Information was collected about pregnancy, delivery and traditional practices through a standardized questionnaire. Dietary intake and food frequency were estimated using the 24 h recall method, calibrated bowls and FAO food composition tables. Mothers' and infants' anthropometry was assessed and multivariate analysis performed. RESULTS: Contrasting with a high antenatal care attendance (91%) and delivery under health professional supervision (72%), a high prevalence of traditional practices was found, including exposure to hot beds of embers (97%), use of traditional herb tea as the only beverage (95%) and restricted diets (90%). Twenty-five mothers (8.3%) were underweight. Mothers had insufficient intake of calories (55.6%), lipids (67.4%), iron (92.0%), vitamins A (99.3%) and C (45%), thiamin (96.6%) and calcium (96.6%). Chewed glutinous rice was given to infants as an early (mean 34.6, 95% CI:29.3-39.8 days) complementary food by 53.7% of mothers, and was associated with stunting in 10% children (OR=1.35, 95% CI:1.04-1.75). CONCLUSION: The high prevalence of traditional postpartum restricted diets and practices, and inadequate maternal nutritional intake in urban Laos, suggest that antenatal care may be an important opportunity to improve postpartum diets. Language: English Keywords: LAOS | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | PREVALENCE | INFANT | CHILDREN | MOTHERS | FOOD AND BEVERAGE | DIET | CHILD NUTRITION | INFANT NUTRITION | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Measurement | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Nutrition | Health Document Number: 341041 |
| 5. Title: Growth and nutritional status of pre-school children in India: rural-urban and gender differences. Author: Bharati P; Bharati S; Pal M; Chakrabarty S; Som S; Gupta R Source: Collegium Antropologicum. 2009 Mar;33(1):7-21. Abstract: This cross-sectional study of growth and nutritional status makes an attempt to find the gender and rural-urban differences among Indian preschool children. This study is based on the data of weight and height of children aged 0-35 months taken from 26 States (total 26,369 children; 13784 boys and 12585 girls). The children are found to be lighter and shorter compared to International standards irrespective of age and sex. Boys are heavier and taller than girls. Urban preschool children are heavier and taller compared to rural counterparts. In the urban area, higher percentages of girls are affected by underweight (37.1%) and stunting (35.0%) than boys. In rural areas, the prevalence of underweight is also higher among girls (47.9%) compared to boys (45.7%), which is found to be much significant (p < 0.01). There is a significant rural-urban as well as gender difference in growth and nutritional status of Indian preschool children. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | RURAL POPULATION | URBAN POPULATION | CHILDREN | PRIMARY SCHOOLS | GROWTH | CHILD NUTRITION | CHILD DEVELOPMENT | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Youth | Age Factors | Schools | Education | Biology | Nutrition | Health Document Number: 341201 |
| 6. Peer Reviewed Title: Late-stage HIV/AIDS among children: the missing diagnosis of a preventable disease. Author: Gouveia J; Souza E; Falbo A Source: Tropical Doctor. 2009 Jan;39(1):41-2. Abstract: We studied 126 malnourished children who had been admitted to the Instituto Materno Infantil Professor Fernando Figueira (IMIP) hospital. Nine (7.1%) had confirmation of HIV infection and all fulfilled the AIDS-defining criteria - all had been infected through mother-to-child transmission. Only one HIV-infected mother had been screened for HIV infection during prenatal care. There is, therefore, a need to increase HIV testing in all malnourished patients, especially when routine screening for HIV infection during prenatal care is not automatically undertaken. Language: English Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | CHILDREN | MOTHERS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | AIDS | CHILD NUTRITION | MALNUTRITION | COMPLICATIONS | DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS | MOTHER-TO-CHILD TRANSMISSION | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Population | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Nutrition | Health | Nutrition Disorders | Transmission | Infections Document Number: 330987 |
| 7. Title: Reconsidering childhood undernutrition: can birth spacing make a difference? An analysis of the 2002-2003 El Salvador National Family Health Survey. Author: Gribble JN; Murray NJ; Menotti EP Source: Maternal and Child Nutrition. 2009 Jan;5(1):49-63. Abstract: It is well understood that undernutrition underpins much of child morbidity and mortality in less developed countries, but the causes of undernutrition are complex and interrelated, requiring a multipronged approach for intervention. This paper uses a subsample of 3853 children under age 5 from the most recent family health survey in El Salvador to examine the relationship between birth spacing and childhood undernutrition (stunting and underweight). While recent research and guidance suggest that birth spacing of three to five years contributes to lower levels of infant and childhood mortality, little attention has been given to the possibility that short birth intervals have longer-term effects on childhood nutrition status. The analysis controls for clustering effects arising from siblings being included in the subsample, as well as variables that are associated with household resources, household structure, reproductive history and outcomes, and household social environment. The results of the multiple regression analyses find that in comparison to intervals of 36-59 months, birth intervals of less than 24 months and intervals of 24-35 months significantly increase the odds of stunting (<24 months Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.52; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.21-1.92; 25-36 months OR = 1.30; 95% CI: 1.05-1.64). Other factors related to stunting and underweight include standard of living index quintile, child's age, mother's education, low birthweight, use of prenatal care, and region of the country where the child lives. Policy and program implications include more effective use of health services and outreach programs to counsel mothers on family planning, breastfeeding, and well child care. Language: English Keywords: EL SALVADOR | RESEARCH REPORT | ANTHROPOMETRY | CHILDREN | CHILD HEALTH | CHILD DEVELOPMENT | CHILD NUTRITION | BIRTH SPACING | BIRTH INTERVALS | LOW BIRTH WEIGHT | FAMILY PLANNING | BREASTFEEDING | NEEDS | PROGRAM EVALUATION | Developing Countries | Central America | Latin America | Americas | Measurement | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health | Biology | Nutrition | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Birth Weight | Body Weight | Physiology | Infant Nutrition | Economic Factors | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 329593 |
| 8. Title: The social context of childcare practices and child malnutrition in Niger's recent food crisis. Author: Hampshire K; Casiday R; Kilpatrick K; Panter-Brick C Source: Disasters. 2009 Mar;33(1):132-51. Abstract: In 2004-05, Niger suffered a food crisis during which global attention focused on high levels of acute malnutrition among children. In response, decentralised emergency nutrition programmes were introduced into much of southern Niger. Child malnutrition, however, is a chronic problem and its links with food production and household food security are complex. This qualitative, anthropological study investigates pathways by which children are rendered vulnerable in the context of a nutritional 'emergency'. It focuses on household-level decisions that determine resource allocation and childcare practices in order to explain why practices apparently detrimental to children's health persist. Risk aversion, the need to maintain self-identity and status, and constrained decision making result in a failure to invest extra necessary resources ingrowth-faltering children. Understanding and responding to the social context of child malnutrition will help humanitarian workers to integrate their efforts more effectively with longer-term development programmes aimed at improving livelihood security. Language: English Keywords: NIGER | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | CHILDREN | HOUSEHOLDS | CHILD NUTRITION | MALNUTRITION | FAMINE | DECENTRALIZATION | NUTRITION PROGRAMS | ANTHROPOLOGY, CULTURAL | DECISION MAKING | RESOURCE ALLOCATION | HOME ECONOMICS | CHILD CARE | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Nutrition | Health | Nutrition Disorders | Diseases | Food Supply | Natural Resources | Environment | Political Factors | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Science | Behavior | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Microeconomic Factors | Child Rearing Document Number: 331289 |
| 9. Peer Reviewed Title: Effect of preventive supplementation with ready-to-use therapeutic food on the nutritional status, mortality, and morbidity of children aged 6 to 60 months in Niger: a cluster randomized trial. Author: Isanaka S; Nombela N; Djibo A; Poupard M; Van Beckhoven D; Gaboulaud V; Guerin PJ; Grais RF Source: JAMA. 2009 Jan 21;301(3):277-85. Abstract: CONTEXT: Ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTFs) are an important component of effective outpatient treatment of severe wasting. However, their effectiveness in the population-based prevention of moderate and severe wasting has not been evaluated. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of a 3-month distribution of RUTF on the nutritional status, mortality, and morbidity of children aged 6 to 60 months in Niger. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: A cluster randomized trial of 12 villages in Maradi, Niger. Six villages were randomized to intervention and 6 to no intervention. All children in the study villages aged 6 to 60 months were eligible for recruitment. INTERVENTION: Children with weight-for-height 80% or more of the National Center for Health Statistics reference median in the 6 intervention villages received a monthly distribution of 1 packet per day of RUTF (92 g [500 kcal/d]) from August to October 2006. Children in the 6 nonintervention villages received no preventive supplementation. Active surveillance for conditions requiring medical or nutritional treatment was conducted monthly in all 12 study villages from August 2006 to March 2007. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Changes in weight-for-height z score (WHZ) according to the World Health Organization Child Growth Standards and incidence of wasting (WHZ <-2) over 8 months of follow-up. RESULTS: The number of children with height and weight measurements in August, October, December, and February was 3166, 3110, 2936, and 3026, respectively. The WHZ difference between the intervention and nonintervention groups was -0.10 z (95% confidence interval [CI], -0.23 to 0.03) at baseline and 0.12 z (95% CI, 0.02 to 0.21) after 8 months of follow-up. The adjusted effect of the intervention on WHZ from baseline to the end of follow-up was thus 0.22 z (95% CI, 0.13 to 0.30). The absolute rate of wasting and severe wasting, respectively, was 0.17 events per child-year (140 events/841 child-years) and 0.03 events per child-year (29 events/943 child-years) in the intervention villages, compared with 0.26 events per child-year (233 events/895 child-years) and 0.07 events per child-year (71 events/1029 child-years) in the nonintervention villages. The intervention thus resulted in a 36% (95% CI, 17% to 50%; P < .001) reduction in the incidence of wasting and a 58% (95% CI, 43% to 68%; P < .001) reduction in the incidence of severe wasting. There was no reduction in mortality, with a mortality rate of 0.007 deaths per child-year (7 deaths/986 child-years) in the intervention villages and 0.016 deaths per child-year (18 deaths/1099 child-years) in the nonintervention villages (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.25 to 1.05). CONCLUSION: Short-term supplementation of nonmalnourished children with RUTF reduced the decline in WHZ and the incidence of wasting and severe wasting over 8 months. TRIAL REGISTRATION: clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00682708. Language: English Keywords: NIGER | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL TRIALS | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CHILDREN | FOOD SUPPLEMENTATION | CHILD MORTALITY | CHILD SURVIVAL | CHILD NUTRITION | PREVENTIVE HEALTH CARE | DISTRIBUTIONAL ACTIVITIES | BODY WEIGHT | GROWTH | MALNUTRITION | PREVALENCE | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Clinical Research | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Nutrition Programs | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Survivorship | Length of Life | Nutrition | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Physiology | Biology | Child Development | Nutrition Disorders | Diseases | Measurement Document Number: 330049 |
| 10. Peer Reviewed Title: Emotional development and nutritional status of HIV/AIDS orphaned children aged 6-12 years old in Thailand. Author: Isaranurug S; Chompikul J Source: Maternal and Child Health Journal. 2009 Jan;13(1):138-43. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To explore the emotional development and nutritional status of HIV/AIDS orphans by their infection status. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted during January and December 2005 in four provinces and Bangkok Metropolis where the prevalence of HIV/AIDS among pregnant women was high. The study population consisted of 388 HIV/AIDS orphans who were maternal or paternal or double orphans aged 6-12 years old. The orphans' main caregivers gave informed consent to the project and assessed the emotional development of their orphaned children. The children were measured for weight, height, and emotional development by standard instruments. They were divided into three groups regarding their HIV/AIDS infection status reported by their caregivers: infected, non-infected, and unknown. The chi(2) test was used to determine the association between nutritional status and infection status. RESULTS: Regarding HIV/AIDS infected children, 19.1% were infected, 57.5% were not infected, and 23.4% were unknown. The main caregivers of all types of orphans were grandparents. Only 13.7% of infected orphans lived with their mothers. Most caregivers were females and more than 40 years old. Infected orphans had mean scores of overall emotional development and for each domain less than other groups. The mean scores of self-control and quick recovery were significantly different between infected and non-infected groups (P-value < 0.05). Nearly 50% of infected orphans were rather short and approximately 42% were under weight and light. The findings revealed a significant association between height for age, weight for age and infection status of orphans at a P-value of <0.001. CONCLUSIONS: Orphanhood itself is a vulnerable status and HIV/AIDS infected orphans are most vulnerable. Acceptable and friendly services for orphans and their families are crucial. The services should continue and protect stigmatization. Language: English Keywords: THAILAND | RESEARCH REPORT | ORPHANS AND VULNERABLE CHILDREN | NUTRITION INDEXES | CHILD NUTRITION | EMOTIONS | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Nutrition | Health | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Viral Diseases | Diseases Document Number: 330859 |
| 11. Peer Reviewed Title: Exploring health stakeholders' perceptions on moving towards comprehensive primary health care to address childhood malnutrition in Iran: a qualitative study. Author: Javanparast S; Coveney J; Saikia U Source: BMC Health Services Research. 2009;9:36. Abstract: BACKGROUND: Due to the multifaceted aspect of child malnutrition, a comprehensive approach, taking social factors into account, has been frequently recommended in health literature. The Alma-Ata declaration explicitly outlined comprehensive primary health care as an approach that addresses the social, economic and political causes of poor health and nutrition. Iran as a signatory country to the Alma Ata Declaration has established primary health care since 1979 with significant progress on many health indicators during the last three decades. However, the primary health care system is still challenged to reduce inequity in conditions such as child malnutrition which trace back to social factors. This study aimed to explore the perceptions of the Iranian health stakeholders with respect to the Iranian primary health care performance and actions to move towards a comprehensive approach in addressing childhood malnutrition. Health stakeholders are defined as those who affect or can be affected by health system, for example health policy-makers, health providers or health service recipients. METHODS: Stakeholder analysis approach was undertaken using a qualitative research method. Different levels of stakeholders, including health policy-makers, health providers and community members were interviewed as either individuals or focus groups. Qualitative content analysis was used to interpret and compare/contrast the viewpoints of the study participants. RESULTS: The results demonstrated that fundamental differences exist in the perceptions of different health stakeholders in the understanding of comprehensive notion and action. Health policy-makers mainly believed in the need for a secure health management environment and the necessity for a whole of the government approach to enhance collaborative action. Community health workers, on the other hand, indicated that staff motivation, advocacy and involvement are the main challenges need to be addressed. Turning to community stakeholders, greater emphasis has been placed on community capabilities, informal link with other social sectors based on trust and local initiatives. CONCLUSION: This research provided a picture of the differences in the perceptions and values of different stakeholders with respect to primary health care concepts. The study suggests that a top-down approach, which still exists among health policy-makers, is a key obstacle that delays, and possibly worse, undermines the implementation of the comprehensive strategy codified by the Alma-Ata Declaration. A need to revitalize primary health care to use its full potential and to combine top-down and bottom-up approaches by narrowing the gap between perceptions of policy makers and those who provide and receive health-related services is crucial. Language: English Keywords: IRAN | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | COMPARATIVE STUDIES | CHILDREN | POLICYMAKERS | COMMUNITY | COMMUNITY WORKERS | HEALTH PERSONNEL | PRIMARY HEALTH CARE | CHILD NUTRITION | MALNUTRITION | PERCEPTION | HEALTH POLICY | COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES | Middle East | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Health Services | Nutrition | Nutrition Disorders | Diseases | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 331083 |
| 12. Peer Reviewed Title: Patterns of soil-transmitted helminth infection and impact of four-monthly albendazole treatments in preschool children from semi-urban communities in Nigeria: a double-blind placebo-controlled randomised trial. Author: Kirwan P; Asaolu SO; Molloy SF; Abiona TC; Jackson AL; Holland CV Source: BMC Infectious Diseases. 2009;9:20. Abstract: BACKGROUND: Children aged between one and five years are particularly vulnerable to disease caused by soil-transmitted helminths (STH). Periodic deworming has been shown to improve growth, micronutrient status (iron and vitamin A), and motor and language development in preschool children and justifies the inclusion of this age group in deworming programmes. Our objectives were to describe the prevalence and intensity of STH infection and to investigate the effectiveness of repeated four-monthly albendazole treatments on STH infection in children aged one to four years. METHODS: The study was carried out in four semi-urban villages situated near Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria. The study was a double-blind placebo-controlled randomised trial. Children aged one to four years were randomly assigned to receive either albendazole or placebo every four months for 12 months with a follow-up at 14 months. RESULTS: The results presented here revealed that 50% of the preschool children in these semi-urban communities were infected by one or more helminths, the most prevalent STH being Ascaris lumbricoides (47.6%). Our study demonstrated that repeated four-monthly anthelminthic treatments with albendazole were successful in reducing prevalence and intensity of A. lumbricoides infections. At the end of the follow-up period, 12% and 43% of the children were infected with A. lumbricoides and mean epg was 117 (S.E. 50) and 1740 (S.E. 291) in the treatment and placebo groups respectively compared to 45% and 45% of the children being infected with Ascaris and mean epg being 1095 (S.E. 237) and 1126 (S.E. 182) in the treatment and placebo group respectively at baseline. CONCLUSION: Results from this study show that the moderate prevalence and low intensity of STH infection in these preschool children necessitates systematic treatment of the children in child health programmes. Language: English Keywords: NIGERIA | RESEARCH REPORT | PREVALENCE | CHILDREN | CHILD NUTRITION | GASTROINTESTINAL EFFECTS | INFECTIONS | VITAMINS AND MINERALS | DEFICIENCY DISEASES | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Measurement | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Nutrition | Health | Physiology | Biology | Diseases | Nutrition Disorders Document Number: 330549 |
| 13. Title: Causes for the decline in child under-nutrition in Brazil, 1996-2007. Author: Monteiro CA; Benicio MH; Konno SC; Silva AC; Lima AL; Conde WL Source: Revista De Saude Publica. 2009 Feb;43(1):35-43. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To describe the evolution of prevalence of under-nutrition among Brazilian underfives between 1996 and 2007, and to identify major factors responsible for this evolution. METHODS: Data analyzed are from two Demographic Health Surveys carried out in Brazil in 1996 and 2006/7 based on probabilistic samples of roughly 4 thousand children under five years of age. Identification of factors responsible for temporal variation in prevalence of under-nutrition (height-for-age below -2 Z-scores; WHO 2006 standard) took into account changes in the distribution of four potential determinants of nutritional status. Statistical modeling of the independent association between these determinants and risk of under-nutrition, and calculation of 'partial attributable fractions' were used to determine the relative importance of each factor in the evolution of infant under-nutrition. RESULTS: Prevalence of under-nutrition fell by approximately 50%, from 13.5% (95%CI: 12.1%; 14.8%) in 1996 to 6.8% (5.4%; 8.3%) in 2006/7. Two-thirds of this reduction could be attributed to favorable evolution in the four factors studied: 25.7% to increased maternal schooling; 21.7% to increased purchasing power of families; 11.6% to expansion of healthcare; and 4.3%to improvements in sanitation. CONCLUSIONS: The 6.3% annual rate of decline in the proportion of children with height-for-age deficits indicates that, in another ten years, child malnutrition in Brazil may no longer be a public health issue. Achieving this will depend on the maintenance of economic and social policies that have favored an increase in purchasing power among the poor, and on public investments aimed at completing the universalization of access to essential services such as education, health, and sanitation among the Brazilian population. Language: EnglishPortuguese Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | CHILD | MALNUTRITION | PREVALENCE | CHILD NUTRITION | NUTRITION DISORDERS | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | HEALTH SERVICES | SANITATION | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Diseases | Measurement | Research Methodology | Nutrition | Health | Economic Factors | Socioeconomic Status | Delivery of Health Care | Public Health Document Number: 341847 |
| 14. Title: [Actions of education health for child and adolescents in the city of Vitoria] As acoes de educacao em saude para criancas e adolescentes nas unidades basicas Author: Oliveira CB; Frechiani JM; Silva FM; Maciel EL Source: Ciencia and Saude Coletiva. 2009 Mar-Apr;14(2):635-44. Abstract: This was a cross-sectional study carried in six Family Health Units, for direct observation of educative activities. The objective was to evaluate the actions of Education Health carried through in the informative sessions that approached the following subjects: family planning, breast feeding, families registered in Nutrition Programmes and children in nutritional risk. For the study proposed we establish that al action developed out side the individual approach to resolved heath problems will be considerer as health education. The unprepared of some professionals for the full functioning of the activities can still be observed. The findings of this study disclose the little participation of these Units in the accomplishment of educative activities on family planning come back toward the adolescents. Concerning the activities developed for the families registered in Nutrition Programmes, excellent subjects as the importance to appear the educative activities of the unit had been boarded in the most part of the lectures. The social activities for children in nutritional risk are carried out together with the families of the Nutrition Programmes. Although we observed several activities we still need to improved the multidisciplinary work to implement the heath promotion. Language: Portuguese Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | CHILDREN | ADOLESCENTS | FAMILY PLANNING | BREASTFEEDING | CHILD NUTRITION | HEALTH EDUCATION | PROMOTION | NEEDS | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Infant Nutrition | Nutrition | Health | Education | Marketing | Economic Factors | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 342096 |
| 15. Title: Factors associated with underweight and stunting among children in rural Terai of eastern Nepal. Author: Pramod Singh GC; Nair M; Grubesic RB; Connell FA Source: Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health. 2009 Apr;21(2):144-52. Abstract: Malnutrition continues to affect a large proportion of children in the developing world. The authors undertook this study to identify biologic, socioeconomic, and health care factors associated with underweight and stunting in young children in an the eastern Tarai (plains) district of Nepal. Data were collected via questionnaires from mothers of 443 children aged 6 to 36 months in Sunsari district. Multistage cluster sampling was used to select villages and children. Anthropometric measurements were made on both children and their mothers. Logistic regression was used to measure the independent (adjusted) effect of risk and protective factors on the odds of underweight or stunting. More than half (53.3%) of the children were found to be underweight (<2 standard deviations weight for age below reference median) and more than one third (36.6%) had stunting (<2 standard deviations height for age below reference median). Low maternal body mass index, child's age, higher birth order, and lower standard of living score were strong predictors of underweight, whereas mother's education >5 years and participation in vitamin A and nutritional programs were protective. Infant age, low maternal body mass index, and low standard of living score were significant risk factors for stunting, whereas mother's education >5 years was strongly protective. These results suggest that underweight and stunting are the result of a nexus of biological, socioeconomic, and health care factors. Language: English Keywords: NEPAL | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CLINICAL RESEARCH | CHILDREN | RURAL POPULATION | PREVALENCE | DEFICIENCY DISEASES | BODY WEIGHT | BODY HEIGHT | RISK FACTORS | MALNUTRITION | CHILD NUTRITION | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Measurement | Nutrition Disorders | Diseases | Physiology | Biology | Health | Nutrition | Economic Factors | Health Services Evaluation | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 331248 |
| 16. Title: Nutrition intervention and adequate hygiene practices to improve iron status of vulnerable preschool Burkinabe children. Author: Sanou D; Turgeon-O'Brien H; Desrosiers T Source: Nutrition. 2009 Jul 21; Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To determine the impact of an intervention that combined an increase in dietary and bioavailable iron intakes and an improvement in hygiene behaviors on the iron status of preschool children from Burkina Faso. METHODS: Thirty-three orphans and vulnerable children from 11 families who were 1-6 y old, were non-anemic, or had mild to moderate anemia were enrolled in an 18-wk trial. Using the probability approach for planning diets in an assisted-living facility, bioavailable iron intake was increased from 0.4 to 0.9mg/d by increasing the amounts of meat and citrus fruits and by adding iron-rich condiments to the diet, for an estimated cost of U.S. $0.59/mo. Hygiene behaviors were modified by implementing hand-washing before meals and by the use of individual plates for meals. Iron status indicators were measured twice and means at enrollment and after intervention were compared. RESULTS: After intervention, hemoglobin concentration increased from 98.7 to 103.8g/L (P=0.006). There was a decrease in total iron binding capacity (107 to 91mumol/L, P=0.05) and a marginal increase in transferrin saturation (13% to 17%, P=0.06). Significant improvement was not observed for serum ferritin concentration or prevalence of depleted iron stores, likely due to the confounding effect of infection. Anemia and iron-deficiency anemia were decreased from 64% to 30% and from 61% to 30%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Dietary modification associated with adequate hygiene behaviors could be a relevant strategy to control iron deficiency and anemia in areas where infection is a major health problem. Language: English Keywords: BURKINA FASO | RESEARCH REPORT | SAMPLING STUDIES | ORPHANS AND VULNERABLE CHILDREN | CHILD NUTRITION | INTERVENTIONS | DIET | IRON | ANEMIA | PREVALENCE | HYGIENE | HEMOGLOBIN LEVEL | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Nutrition | Health | Programs | Organization and Administration | Metals | Vitamins and Minerals | Physiology | Biology | Diseases | Measurement | Public Health | Hemic System Document Number: 342282 |
| 17. Peer Reviewed Title: Association between nutritional status, environmental and socio-economic factors and Giardia lamblia infections among children aged 6-71 months in Brazil. Author: Silva RR; da Silva CA; de Jesus Pereira CA; de Carvalho Nicolato RL; Negrao-Correa D; Lamounier JA; Carneiro M Source: Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. 2009 May;103(5):512-9. Abstract: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a randomised sample of 405 children aged 6-71 months in Brazil to investigate the association between nutritional status, environmental and socio-economic factors and Giardialamblia infection. Data collection entailed an interview, anthropometric measurements and the collection of faeces and venous blood samples. The analysis was performed using multivariate logistic regression. The prevalence rate for G. lamblia was 26.3%. Nutritional status evaluation showed that 7.9% of the children had chronic malnutrition and 11.1% had acute malnutrition. The risk factors associated with infection by G. lamblia were an age of 2 years or older [odds ratio (OR)=2.4], living in a two-bedroom house or smaller (OR=2.3), living among a family of five or more people (OR=2.4) and living in a house without access to a sewerage system (OR=2.1). Non-participation in the social service programme was associated with a lower risk of infection (OR=0.2). The model adjusted for age, including only biochemical and nutritional variables, showed weak associations with G. lamblia infection for two variables: inadequate animal protein intake according to the Dietary Reference Intake recommendation and low haemoglobin concentration. The sociodemographic and environmental risk factors classically described were associated with G. lamblia infection, but nutritional variables were only weakly associated with it. Language: English Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | CHILDREN | RISK FACTORS | CHILD NUTRITION | MALNUTRITION | NUTRITION INDEXES | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health | Nutrition | Nutrition Disorders | Diseases | Economic Factors Document Number: 342514 |
| 18. Title: Breastfeeding, complementary feeding, overweight and obesity in pre-school children. Author: Simon VG; Souza JM; Souza SB Source: Revista De Saude Publica. 2009 Feb;43(1):60-9. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To analyze the association of overweight and obesity with breastfeeding and complementary feeding in pre-school children. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with 566 children, enrolled in private schools of the city of Sao Paulo, Southeastern Brazil, in 2004-2005. The dependent variable was overweight and obesity. Body Mass Index percentile curves were employed to classify children's nutritional status, considering values > or =P85 and Language: EnglishPortuguese Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | STATISTICAL REGRESSION | CHILDREN | BREASTFEEDING | SUPPLEMENTARY FEEDING | BODY WEIGHT | OBESITY | CHILD NUTRITION | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Data Analysis | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Infant Nutrition | Nutrition | Health | Physiology | Biology Document Number: 341846 |
| 19. Title: The World Health Organization child growth standards: expected implications for clinical and epidemiological research [editorial] Author: Van den Broeck J; Willie D; Younger N Source: European Journal of Pediatrics. 2009 Feb;168(2):247-51. Abstract: In 2006 and 2007, the World Health Organization (WHO) released two sets of child growth standards (World Health Organization, WHO Child Growth Standards. Methods and development. Length/height-for-age, weight-for-age, weight-for-length, weight-for-height and body mass index-for-age. WHO, Geneva, 2006; World Health Organization, WHO Child Growth Standards: Methods and Development. Head circumference-for-age, arm circumference-for-age, triceps skinfold-for-age and subscapular skinfold-for-age. WHO, Geneva, 2007) to replace the National Center for Health Statistics references (Hamill et al., National Center for Health Statistics, Vital and Health Statistics Series 11, No 165, 1977) as an international tool for growth and nutritional assessment. This paper explores the scope of implications for future anthropometric research, highlighting foreseeable effects on the choice of research questions, choice of nutritional indices, training of measurers, and issues of internal and external validity of research results. The conclusion drawn is that the introduction of the WHO child growth standards is expected to have wide implications for growth and nutrition research. The full scope of this effect will gradually become clear while researchers, similar to health care workers, make the transition to using the new standards, re-evaluate results of past approaches, and explore the uses and functional validity of the standards, including those for indices that were not previously available. Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | PREVALENCE | INCIDENCE | ANTHROPOMETRY | CHILD DEVELOPMENT | CHILD NUTRITION | NUTRITION INDEXES | BODY WEIGHT | Measurement | Research Methodology | Biology | Nutrition | Health | Physiology Document Number: 330512 |
20.  Title: Attacking inequality in the health sector: a synthesis of evidence and tools. Author: Yazbeck AS Source: Washington, D.C., World Bank, 2009. [330] p. Abstract: The main purpose of this book is to make available the accumulated knowledge of successful policy and analytical tools in this fight to reverse the vicious circle of income-poverty and ill health. The book presents both a practical set of analytical tools for understanding the causes of inequality in the use of health services and a menu of proven pro-poor policy actions. It is based on the evaluation of 14 successful policy changes in low- and middle-income countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, and a review of the published literature on inequality in the health sector. (Excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | SUMMARY REPORT | DATA COLLECTION | LITERATURE REVIEW | LOW INCOME POPULATION | POVERTY | INEQUALITIES | DELIVERY OF HEALTH CARE | HEALTH POLICY | INFANT MORTALITY | FERTILITY | MATERNAL-CHILD HEALTH SERVICES | ANTENATAL CARE | CHILD HEALTH | IMMUNIZATION | CHILD NUTRITION | Research Methodology | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Health | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Maternal Health Services | Nutrition Document Number: 331451 |
| 21. Title: Azerbaijan Demographic and Health Survey 2006. Author: Azerbaijan. State Statistical Committee; Macro International. MEASURE DHS Source: Baku, Azerbaijan, State Statistical Committee, 2008 May. [400] p. (USAID Contract No. GPO-C-00-03-00002-00) Abstract: The Azerbaijan Demographic and Health Survey (AzDHS) is a nationally representative survey of 8,444 women age 15-49 and 2,558 men age 15-59. Following discussions with USAID and UNICEF regarding support for a new survey to obtain precise data on infant and child mortality, the 2006 Azerbaijan Demographic and Health Survey (AzDHS) was carried out from July to November 2006. The survey was implemented by the State Statistical Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and UNICEF, with Macro International Inc. providing technical assistance, and participation by the Ministry of Health. The 2006 Azerbaijan Demographic and Health Survey provides recent estimates of infant and child mortality, and these estimates are about half those of the 2000 MICS and the 2001 RHSA. In addition to mortality data, the objectives of the 2006 AzDHS were to collect national- and regional-level data on fertility and contraceptive use, maternal and child health, adult health, and AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. The survey obtained detailed information on these topics from women of reproductive age and, for certain topics, from men as well. Data are presented by region when sample size permits. The survey findings provide estimates for a variety of demographic indicators. The 2006 AzDHS results are intended to provide the information needed to evaluate existing social programs and to design new strategies for improving the health of and health services for the people of Azerbaijan. (Excerpts) Language: English Keywords: AZERBAIJAN | SUMMARY REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | HOUSEHOLDS | POPULATION CHARACTERISTICS | SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS | WATER SUPPLY | FERTILITY | FAMILY PLANNING | ABORTION | FERTILITY PREFERENCES | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | CHILD MORTALITY | INFANT MORTALITY | CHILD HEALTH | CHILD NUTRITION | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | KNOWLEDGE | ATTITUDES | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | Developing Countries | Asia, Southwestern | Asia | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Natural Resources | Environment | Fertility Control, Postconception | Health | Mortality | Nutrition | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Women's Status | Crime | Social Problems Document Number: 331495 Notification |
| 22. Title: [Dominican Republic Demographic and Health Survey 2007] Encuesta Demografica y de Salud, Republica Dominicana 2007. Author: Dominican Republic. Centro de Estudios Sociales y Demograficos [CESDEM]; Macro International. MEASURE DHS Source: Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, CESDEM, 2008 May. [580] p. Abstract: This report summarizes the findings of the Dominican Republic Demographic and Health Survey 2007. Topics include household population and housing characteristics, background characteristics of respondents, fertility, family planning, other proximate determinants of fertility, fertility preferences, infant, child and maternal mortality, reproductive health, child health, breastfeeding and child nutrition, HIV / AIDS and STI-related knowledge, attitudes, and behavior, HIV prevalence, women's empowerment and demographic and health outcomes, violence against women, and morbidity, health service utilization and health expenditures. Language: Spanish Keywords: DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | SUMMARY REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | HOUSEHOLDS | POPULATION CHARACTERISTICS | SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS | WATER SUPPLY | FERTILITY | FAMILY PLANNING | ABORTION | FERTILITY PREFERENCES | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | CHILD MORTALITY | INFANT MORTALITY | CHILD HEALTH | CHILD NUTRITION | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | KNOWLEDGE | ATTITUDES | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | Developing Countries | Caribbean | Americas | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Natural Resources | Environment | Fertility Control, Postconception | Health | Mortality | Nutrition | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Women's Status | Crime | Social Problems Document Number: 331496 Notification |
| 23. Title: 2008 world population data sheet. Author: Population Reference Bureau [PRB] Source: Washington, D.C., PRB, 2008. 16 p. Abstract: This wall chart, the 2008 World Population Data Sheet of the Population Reference Bureau, includes demographic data and estimates for the countries and regions of the world. In addition, it summarizes and compares the latest population estimates, projections, and other key indicators for all geopolitical entities with populations of 150,00 or more. As world population has risen from 2.5 billion in 1950 to 6.7 billion in 2008, the proportion living in the developing countries of Africa, Asia, and Latin America and the Caribbean has expanded from 68 percent to more than 80 percent. India and China, with a billion-plus each in 2008, make up about 37 percent of the total. Projections for 2050 show this shift to developing countries continuing. Highlighted in this wall chart is naternal mortality in developing countries, the shift in population density from rural to urban areas, and mother's education and children's nutritional status. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | TABLES AND CHARTS | POPULATION DYNAMICS | POPULATION DISTRIBUTION | POPULATION STATISTICS | POPULATION GROWTH | POPULATION SIZE | MATERNAL MORTALITY | FERTILITY RATE | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | CHILD NUTRITION | Demographic Factors | Population | Geographic Factors | Research Methodology | Mortality | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Nutrition | Health Document Number: 328154 |
| 24. Title: World population highlights: Key findings from PRB's 2008 World Population Data Sheet. Author: Population Reference Bureau [PRB] Source: Population Bulletin. 2008 Sep;63(3):1-12. Abstract: This companion report to PRB's 2008 World Population Data Sheet highlights key findings from the data sheet on: world population trends, nutrition, environment, HIV/AIDS, urbanization, and migration. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | TECHNICAL REPORT | POPULATION DYNAMICS | POPULATION DISTRIBUTION | POPULATION STATISTICS | POPULATION GROWTH | POPULATION SIZE | MATERNAL MORTALITY | FERTILITY RATE | CHILD NUTRITION | MIGRATION | HIV | AIDS | WATER QUALITY | WATER SUPPLY | URBANIZATION | Demographic Factors | Population | Geographic Factors | Research Methodology | Mortality | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Nutrition | Health | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Water | Natural Resources | Environment | Urban Population Distribution Document Number: 328155 |
| 25. Title: Swaziland Demographic and Health Survey 2006-07. Author: Swaziland. Central Statistical Office; Macro International. MEASURE DHS Source: Mbabane, Swaziland, Central Statistical Office, 2008 May. [506] p. Abstract: This detailed report presents the major findings of the 2006-07 Swaziland Demographic and Health Survey (2006-07 SDHS). The 2006-07 SDHS is the first survey of its kind to be undertaken in Swaziland. It was a nationwide survey aimed at generating estimates at the country level, regional level, and for urban and rural areas. The survey was commissioned by the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and implemented by the Central Statistical Office. Fieldwork was carried out between July 2006 and March 2007. The primary objective of the 2006-07 SDHS was to collect up-to-date information for policymakers, planners, researchers, and programme managers that would provide guidance in the planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of population and health programmes in Swaziland. Specifically, the 2006-07 SDHS collected information on fertility levels, marriage, sexual activity, fertility preferences, awareness and use of family planning methods, breastfeeding practices, nutritional status of women and young children, childhood and maternal mortality, care and protection of youth, and awareness and behaviour regarding HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In addition, it collected information on malaria, the use of mosquito nets, and the prevalence of HIV in the population age two years and above. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: SWAZILAND | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | FERTILITY RATE | FERTILITY CHANGES | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | REPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOR | SEX BEHAVIOR | FERTILITY PREFERENCES | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | FAMILY PLANNING | AWARENESS | BREASTFEEDING | MATERNAL NUTRITION | CHILD NUTRITION | CHILD MORTALITY | MATERNAL MORTALITY | ADOLESCENT HEALTH | HIV | PREVALENCE | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES | MALARIA | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Marriage | Nuptiality | Behavior | Contraception | Knowledge | Sociocultural Factors | Infant Nutrition | Nutrition | Health | Mortality | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Measurement | Research Methodology | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Parasitic Diseases Document Number: 327506 |
| 26. Title: Importance of optimal infant and young child feeding (IYCF) in achieving millennium development goals. Author: Agarwal RK Source: Indian Pediatrics. 2008 Sep;45(9):719-21. Abstract: Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) represent the widest commitment in history to addressing global poverty and ill health. The fourth goal (MDG-4) commits the international community to reducing mortality in children aged younger than 5 years by two-thirds between 1990 and 2015. The first goal (MDG-1) pertaining to eradicate extreme hunger and poverty includes prevalence of underweight children less than five years of age as one of the indicator to gauge for achieving this goal(1). Undernutrition is a largely preventable cause of over one third (35 million) of about 10 million child deaths annually(2). Deaths associated with inappropriate feeding practices mostly occur during the first year of life. By the time children reach their second birthday, if undernourished, they could suffer irreversible physical and cognitive damage, impacting their future health, economic well-being, and welfare. The consequences of insufficient nourishment continue into adulthood and are passed on to the next generation as undernourished girls and women, giving birth to babies with low birth weight(3). To achieve optimal health, development and survival of infants and young children, all infants should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months followed by introduction of appropriate complementary feeding along with continued breastfeeding for two years or beyond(4). (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CRITIQUE | RECOMMENDATIONS | CLINICAL RESEARCH | INFANT | CHILDREN | CHILD SURVIVAL | CHILD NUTRITION | INFANT NUTRITION | BODY WEIGHT | MALNUTRITION | CHILD DEVELOPMENT | CAUSES OF DEATH | NEONATAL MORTALITY | RISK ASSESSMENT | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Survivorship | Length of Life | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Nutrition | Health | Physiology | Biology | Nutrition Disorders | Diseases | Infant Mortality | Evaluation Document Number: 329157 |
| 27. Title: Nutritional anaemia and malaria in pre-school and school age children. Author: Anumudu C; Afolami M; Igwe C; Nwagwu M; Keshinro O Source: Annals of African Medicine. 2008;7(1):11-17. Abstract: The most common cause of anemia is a deficiency of iron; but it may also be caused by deficiencies of folates, vitamin B12 and protein. Some anemias are not caused by nutritional factors, but by congenital factors and parasitic diseases such as malaria. This study attempted to estimate the prevalence of anemia among pre-school and school- aged children in two rural areas of Odogbolu Local government area, and to determine whether its cause was nutritional or could be attributed to malaria. A total of 177 children between the ages of 2 and 11 years were included in the study. Children were examined for malaria parasites by microscopy. The World Health Organization (WHO) age-adjusted cut-off for hemoglobin and hematocrit were used to classify anemia. An enzyme linked immunosorbent assay for serum ferritin was compared with standard methods of determining iron deficiency. Under- nutrition (stunting, wasting and underweight) was classified according to the National Centre for Health Statistics standards. Values below m - 2SD were defined as mild-moderate under-nutrition, and those below m -3SD as severe malnutrition. Most of the children were anemic, 87.1%, having PCV values below the 32% cut-off and 95% with hemoglobin levels lower than the 11g/dl, although parasite prevalence and density were low. Malnutrition was patent; 36% of the children were stunted, 18.3% wasted and 44.2% underweight. Serum ferritin was more sensitive than PCV in detecting anemic children. Although anemia was higher in boys and preschoolers compared to girls and school aged children, the difference was significant only in preschoolers (P = .004). Anaemia was also significantly higher in Irawo village school than in Iloti (P = .0001). The anemia detected in this population may be due more to under-nutrition than to malaria. (author's) Language: English Keywords: NIGERIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | CHILDREN | ANEMIA | PREVALENCE | MALARIA | PARASITES | NUTRITION DISORDERS | CHILD NUTRITION | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Diseases | Measurement | Parasitic Diseases | Biology | Nutrition | Health Document Number: 327661 |
| 28. Title: Understanding child feeding practices of Vietnamese mothers. Author: Babington L; Patel B Source: MCN. American Journal of Maternal Child Nursing. 2008 Nov-Dec;33(6):376-81. Abstract: PURPOSE: To understand the feeding practices, knowledge, and nutritional beliefs of Vietnamese mothers with young children who are recent immigrants to the United States. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Exploratory, descriptive study using a focus group design to provide qualitative data. Twelve Vietnamese mothers of children under the age of 5 years participated in a 1-hour focus group discussion (in Vietnamese) facilitated by a Vietnamese nutritionist and the principal investigator. RESULTS: The study participants identified that breastfeeding is healthier for babies than formula but reported the difficulty in maintaining breastfeeding due to work and family constraints. A traditional Vietnamese diet of meat or fish with soup broth, vegetables, and rice was the preferred and healthiest diet for children under the age of 6 years. There was consensus in the group that "junk food" and inactivity were unhealthy for children and led to overweight and obesity. Several of the group participants verbalized difficulty in maintaining a healthy diet for their children because the children demanded unhealthy food choices, and their work schedules made it difficult to make sure their children were getting adequate exercise. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: This knowledge can be used by nurses to develop culturally appropriate interventions for immigrants from Vietnam aimed at preventing childhood obesity. Interventions that consider the effects of acculturation could be more effective when targeted to parents of young children than interventions focused on treatment of obesity in later years. Language: English Keywords: VIETNAM | UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | SUMMARY REPORT | IMMIGRANTS | MOTHERS | YOUTH | CHILD NUTRITION | BELIEFS | KNOWLEDGE | BREASTFEEDING | BOTTLE FEEDING | EVALUATION | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Migrants | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Nutrition | Health | Culture | Infant Nutrition Document Number: 330208 |
| 29. Peer Reviewed Title: Outcome of severely malnourished children treated according to UNICEF 2004 guidelines: a one-year experience in a zone hospital in rural Ethiopia. Author: Berti A; Bregani ER; Manenti F; Pizzi C Source: Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. 2008 Sep;102(9):939-44. Abstract: Malnutrition still has a dramatic impact on childhood mortality in sub-Saharan African countries. Very few studies have tried to evaluate the outcome of severely malnourished children treated according to the UNICEF 2004 guidelines and reported fatality rates are still very high. During 2006, 1635 children were admitted to the paediatric ward of St. Luke Catholic Hospital in Wolisso, South West Shewa, Ethiopia. Four hundred and ninety-three (30.15%) were severely malnourished and were enrolled in the study. We reviewed the registration books and inpatient charts to analyze their outcome. A mortality rate of 7.1% was found, which is significantly lower than reported in the literature. 28.6% of deaths occurred within 48 h of admission; the recovery rate was 88.4%; the drop-out rate was 4.5%. Early deaths were due to the poor condition of the children on admission, leading to failure of treatment. Late mortality was considered to be related to electrolyte imbalances, which we were unable to measure. The clinical skills of nursing and medical staff were considered an important factor in improving the outcome of malnourished patients. We found that proper implementation of WHO guidelines for the hospital treatment of severely malnourished children can lead to a relatively low mortality rate, especially when good clinical monitoring is assured. Language: English Keywords: ETHIOPIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | CHILDREN | RURAL POPULATION | MALNUTRITION | CHILD NUTRITION | UNICEF | NUTRITION PROGRAMS | STANDARDIZATION | DEATH RATE | TIME FACTORS | ELECTROLYTE BALANCE | CAUSES OF DEATH | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Nutrition Disorders | Diseases | Nutrition | Health | UN | International Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Data Adjustment | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Homeostasis | Physiology | Biology Document Number: 329253 |
| 30. Title: Adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy and its correlates among HIV infected pediatric patients in Ethiopia. Author: Biadgilign S; Deribew A; Amberbir A; Deribe K Source: BMC Pediatrics. 2008;8:53. Abstract: BACKGROUND: The introduction of combination antiretroviral therapy (ART) has resulted in striking reductions in HIV-related mortality. Despite increased availability of ART, children remain a neglected population. This may be due to concerns that failure to adhere appears to be related to continued viral replication, treatment failure and the emergence of drug-resistant strains of HIV. This study determines the rates and factors associated with adherence to Antiretroviral (ARV) Drug therapy in HIV-infected children who were receiving Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in 2008. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in five hospitals in Addis Ababa from February 18 - April 28, 2008. The study population entailed parents/caretaker and index children who were following ART in the health facilities. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. RESULTS: A total of 390 children respondents were included in the study with a response rate of 91%. The majority, equaling 205 (52.6%) of the children, were greater than 9 years of age. Fifty five percent of the children were girls. A total of 339 children (86.9%) as reported by caregivers were adherent to antiretroviral drugs for the past 7 days before the interview. Numerous variables were found to be significantly associated with adherence: children whose parents did not pay a fee for treatment [OR = 0.39 (95%CI: 0.16, 0.92)], children who had ever received any nutritional support from the clinic [OR = 0.34 (95%CI: 0.14, 0.79)] were less likely to adhere. Whereas children who took co-trimoxazole medication/syrup besides ARVs [OR = 3.65 (95%CI: 1.24, 10.74)], children who did not know their sero-status [OR = 2.53 (95%CI: 1.24, 5.19)] and children who were not aware of their caregiver's health problem [OR = 2.45 (95%CI: 1.25, 4.81)] were more likely to adhere than their counterparts. CONCLUSION: Adherence to HAART in children in Addis Ababa was higher than other similar set-ups. However, there are still significant numbers of children who are non-adherent to HAART. Language: English Keywords: ETHIOPIA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | CHILDREN | PARENTS | URBAN POPULATION | USER COMPLIANCE | |