Prevalence and associated factors influencing stunting in children aged 2–5 years in the Gaza Strip-Palestine: a cross-sectional study

• DOI: 10.1186/s12887-017-0957-y
• Publication Date: 2017-12-21T08:07:22Z
• Authors: Rima Rafiq El Kis...; Kah Leng Soo; Yehia Awad Abed; Wan Abdul Manan W...
• Keywords: Cross-sectional study; Gaza strip; Odds

Stunting continues to be a major public health problem in developing countries. It is one of the most important risk factors for morbidity and mortality during childhood. In Palestine, it another problem, which adds catastrophic issues region. This study aimed determine prevalence stunting its associated among preschool children Gaza Strip.A cross-sectional design was conducted Strip. A total 357 aged 2-5 years their mothers 18-50 were recruited. multistage cluster sampling used selection participants from three geographical areas Strip: Jabalia refugee camp, El Remal urban area, Al Qarara rural area. structured questionnaire face- -face interviews with respective child's mother collect sociodemographic information feeding practice. Anthropometric measurements taken classify height-for-age (HAZ), while maternal height measured as well. Descriptive binary logistic regression analyses applied stunting.The this 19.6%, highest being (22.6%) camp. turns out that shorter had increased odds Children born whose 1.55-1.60 m or <1.55 more likely stunted (p = 0. 008), < 0.001), respectively, than >1.60 m. Moreover, parental consanguinity 015).This showed alarming magnitude Our results also demonstrated short stature stunting. Culturally appropriate interventions strategies should implemented discourage these types marriages. Policy makers must raise awareness importance prevention control nutritional problems combat