EXPLORING THE SOCIOECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF CHILDHOOD MALNUTRITION IN DISTRICT RAHIM YAR KHAN

Abstract

Background: Childhood malnutrition is a significant global health issue that impacts children's growth, development, and overall well-being. Objective: This study aims to investigate the social determinants of childhood malnutrition and explore how factors like socioeconomic status, maternal education, food security, healthcare access, and environmental conditions influence the nutritional status of children. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the district of Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan. A total of 155 respondents participated in the study. The respondents were selected using stratified random sampling to ensure representation from different socioeconomic backgrounds and educational levels. The sample consisted of parents or primary caregivers of children under five years of age, as this age group is especially vulnerable to malnutrition. Results: 55% of children from low-income families were malnourished, compared to 25% from middle-income families and 10% from high-income families. Children of mothers with no formal education had a malnutrition rate of 45%, while those with secondary or higher education had lower rates (18% for secondary education and 35% for primary education). Food insecurity was prevalent in 50% of malnourished children, with 35% of households reporting occasional food insecurity. Logistic regression analysis revealed that low socioeconomic status (Odds Ratio = 3.45, p = 0.004), lack of maternal education (Odds Ratio = 2.80, p = 0.01), frequent food insecurity (Odds Ratio = 4.50, p = 0.001), and limited healthcare access (Odds Ratio = 3.10, p = 0.02) were significant predictors of childhood malnutrition. Conclusion: It is concluded that childhood malnutrition is strongly influenced by social determinants, including socioeconomic status, maternal education, food security, healthcare access, and environmental conditions.