Incidence and correlates of "growth faltering" among 0-6 y children: a panel study from rural Wardha

Abstract

Objectives: To study the magnitude and determinants of growth faltering among 0-6 y children in adopted villages of medical college.

Methods: A total 305 children of less than 6 y were followed monthly for 1 y to assess the growth faltering. At each visit, the mothers/caretakers of children were interviewed and information regarding immunization, morbidity profile, dietary history and child feeding practices collected using a pre-tested interview schedule. Monthly anthropometric measurements of child were taken. Growth faltering has been defined as failure to gain weight or actual loss of weight, and weight gain less than 300 g over a period of three consecutive months.

Results: The cumulative incidence of growth faltering among 0-6 y children was 930 per 1,000 children per year (95% CI 900.8-959.2).The number of growth faltering episodes per child per year was 3.1 (95% CI 2.9-3.3). In the multivariate analysis, the authors found presence of anemia, presence of any illness and improper household ventilation as significant predictors of growth faltering.

Conclusions: The present finding suggests more focus should be given on early detection and timely correction of growth faltering rather than just identification and treatment of severely malnourished children.