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Analysis of the Clinical and Sociodemographic Characteristics in Children
under 5 Years of Age with Acute Malnutrition in the Year 2023 in the
Department of Huila
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Acute child malnutrition is a public health issue that severely impacts the development
and survival of children under five, especially in developing countries. Globally, 45 million children
suffer from this condition, and its incidence has increased in Colombia. In the department of Huila, 687
cases were reported in 2023, influenced by factors such as poverty, limited access to healthcare, and
parental education. Objective: To analyze the clinical and sociodemographic characteristics of children
under five with acute malnutrition in Huila during 2023. Methodology: A cross-sectional observational
study with a quantitative approach was conducted, analyzing 512 cases of children under five with acute
malnutrition in Huila during 2023, using official records from Event 113. Descriptive statistical analysis
and the chi-square test were applied to assess associations between severe acute malnutrition and
sociodemographic and clinical factors. Results: Of the affected children, 59.3% were male, with the
highest incidence in the first year of life. Most cases were from Neiva (43.16%) and urban areas (68%).
Additionally, 72% belonged to the lowest socioeconomic stratum, and only 5.6% of parents had higher
education. Furthermore, 18.55% had low birth weight, and 66.6% were breastfed for only six months.
Clinically, 56.64% presented with wasting, 10.94% with anemia, and 2.73% with edema. No deaths
were reported in the studied population. Discussion: Findings were compared with previous studies,
confirming that children under one year are the most vulnerable. Although higher malnutrition rates
were expected in rural areas, this study found that malnutrition was more prevalent in urban areas,
possibly due to food insecurity and limited access to nutritious foods. The relationship between low
parental education levels and malnutrition was reaffirmed, as well as the importance of prolonged
breastfeeding. Conclusions: Acute malnutrition remains a significant issue in Huila, primarily affecting
children under one year and low-income families. Strengthening nutrition programs, improving parental
nutritional education, and enhancing healthcare access are recommended. Additionally, stricter
nutritional monitoring in early childhood is suggested to prevent complications.
Keywords: child malnutrition, severe acute malnutrition, protein-calorie malnutrition
Artículo recibido 06 enero 2025
Aceptado para publicación: 10 febrero 2025