Feeding practices and behavior of infants and children less than 3 years with protein energy malnutrition

ABSTRACT

300 infants and young children with age ranging from 6 to 36 months suffering from protein energy malnutrition [PEM] were included in this study. Physical and medical examination, as well as anthropometric measurements, were done. A questionnaire was used collecting personal, demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, and feeding pattern and behavior. Analysis of data revealed a marked difference in growth pattern between PEM and control groups. Demographic and socioeconomic factors are important determinants of PEM. There were significant differences in PEM group concerning family size, birth order, mother's age and physical status of the mother, household facilities affected feeding pattern of the child. Most PEM cases showed reduced breast feeding, delayed introduction of weaning foods