EPIDEMIC-CLINICAL PROFILE OF MALNUTRITION IN CHILDREN AGED 6 MONTHS TO 5 YEARS IN THE DJOLU HEALTH ZONE, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

Authors: Polydor Botowamungu Omwatikala, Matthieu Otonyongo Bofoya, David Ingoli Bofaso, Guilain Batamba Abibo & Jacques Oleambale Bondoki

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of malnutrition among children aged 6 months to 5 years in the Djolu Health Zone in the Tshuapa Province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and to analyze the management of malnutrition. And this, during the period from April 24, 2023 to May 24, 2024. To carry out this study, we used the descriptive method of the cross-sectional type; from a population estimated at 285 children of mixed ages, we selected a sample of 71 children whose age varies between 6 months to 5 years and presenting a clinical picture dominated by malnutrition and admitted to the General Reference Hospital of Djolu. From this study the analysis showed that out of a total of 285 children followed, i.e. 24.4 % of study subjects had presented with malnutrition; the age group of 6 to 11 months was the most concerned, i.e. 63%; female subjects were in the majority, i.e. 56.3%; weight loss or 40.8% was the main complaint; no associated pathology was identified,  i.e. 46.4%; acute malnutrition, i.e. 60.5%, was the most observed type; 100% of subjects had received vitamins and dewormer as medical treatment and benefited from nutritional treatment; 75 to 80% progressed normally well; 40.8% presented superinfection as a complication. Improved nutrition, health education and access to care could have a direct impact on reducing malnutrition. These efforts must include continuous monitoring of vulnerable children and early interventions, especially in the absence of associated pathologies.

Keywords: Malnutrition, Child, Clinic, Epidemic, Profile.

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