Abstract:
Malnutrition among preschoolers is a major public health problem in Nigeria; with resultant morbidity, poor psychological and intellectual development and mortality. .
Objective: To assess the anthropometric indices, iron and zinc status of preschoolers in Ozubulu, Anambra State.
Methods: Two hundred and forty (240) preschoolers were randomly selected from eight nursery schools. Data were collected using questionnaire, anthropometry, biochemical analysis and a 3–day weighed food intake study. A sub set of 30 children were selected for biochemical analysis and a 3-day weighed food intake study. Serum iron, total iron binding capacity, percentage transferrin saturation and serum zinc were assessed using standard methods. Data from the questionnaire was analysed using descriptive statistics. The anthropometric data was compared with reference standards. The dietary data were analysed with Food Finder version 3. Results: The prevalence of underweight, wasting and stunting were 1.7%, 11.9%, and 0.8%, respectively. About 66% of the children had low transferrinemia level (percentage transferring saturation <15%). This was more (50%) in the 3 year olds. About 36% of the children had normal (>65μg/dl) zinc status while 63% were deficient (<65 μg/dl). More males (63.6%) had normal serum zinc status than the females (36.4%). The 3 and 5 year olds consumed ≥143.29% and ≥ 155.54% of their FAO/WHO iron and zinc requirements, respectively. Conclusion: Children’s dietary iron and zinc intake were high but probably not bio available. Nutrition education on improving food processing and handling techniques and diversification of diet would help improve zinc and iron status of the preschoolers.
