Anthropometry, food consumption and iron deficiency anemia, among primary school children (6-15 years) in Kenitra city (North-Western Morocco)

INTRODUCTION: the problem of malnutrition among children is a phenomenon associated with a rapid nutrition transition in Morocco and all developing countries. The objective of this study is to evaluate the nutritional status by anthropometry, food consumption and iron deficiency anemia among primary school children aged 6-12 years in Kenitra city (Morocco). METHODS: the survey covered 271 students (55% of boys and 45% girls) aged 6 to 12. Information concerning food consumption patterns, socioeconomic status and other lifestyle factors was obtained using questionnaires and interviews. Anemia was defined when haemoglobin < 11.5 g/dl. RESULTS: the results showed that, 6.3%, 2.2% and 17.3% children were stunted, thin and overweight respectively. No significant association was found between gender and nutritional status of children. 16.2% children were anemic and food consumption found not to be varied and below recommendations. CONCLUSION: the finding in this study showed that overweight and obesity occurred more frequently than the various forms of under nutrition in the population studied. The finding support the urgent need to improve the nutritional status of children by implementing preventive strategy for the problem of malnutrition among school-aged children.