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Patterns of growth and malnutrition among preschoolers in Belize
Author(s) -
Jenkins Carol L.
Publication year - 1981
Publication title -
american journal of physical anthropology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.146
H-Index - 119
eISSN - 1096-8644
pISSN - 0002-9483
DOI - 10.1002/ajpa.1330560208
Subject(s) - malnutrition , geography , psychology , developmental psychology , economic growth , economics
An anthropometric survey of 750 preschoolers was conducted during 1979 in Belize to assess nutritional status in two districts, one coastal and the other inland. Mothers were interviewed concerning reproductive history, child's health and dietary history, and associated factors. Analysis included the recognition of low arm circumference, weight‐for‐age, stature‐for‐age, and weight‐for‐stature. Survey results indicate that about 25% of the children, birth to 5 years old, show evidence of stunting, while 2.5% show evidence of wasting. Comparisons of rates of malnutrition by ethnic group reveal that the Maya and Garifuna (Black Carib) children are significantly more commonly malnourished than others. Applying a discriminant function to groups of children designated as “poor” and “better‐than‐average” growth classes reveals several factors which may be contributory to the etiology of preschool malnutrition in Belize. The frequency of diarrhea and age at introduction to solid foods, are significantly related to growth retardation among preschoolers. Analysis of 24‐hour‐diet recalls corroborates the patterning of malnutrition among ethnic groups.