Nutritional Status of Disabled Children (8–10 years) in Oshimili South Local Government Area, Delta State, Nigeria

OBJECTIVES: The study determined the nutritional status of disabled children (8–10years), living in Oshimili South Local Government area of Delta State, Nigeria. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used. Purposive and simple random sampling techniques of balloting without replacement were used in selecting the subjects for the study. List of all the children was compiled and every second name on the list was picked. Information on socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents was obtained using a validated questionnaire. Dietary intake was assessed using a 24-hour dietary recall and food frequency questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements (weight and height) was carried out using standard procedures. The Body mass index (BMI) was calculated using standard formula (weight (kg)/[height (m)]2.) Clinical manifestations of malnutrition present were also recorded. Socio-demographic data obtained was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), Version 20 and was expressed in Frequencies and Percentages. Nutritional variables were compared using chi-square and Pearson correlation statistics. RESULTS: The result of the study showed that more than half (53.7%) of the respondents were females while 46.3% were male. Majority (70.7%) had normal body mass index (BMI). 17.1% were overweight with 2.4% severely overweight, while 4.9% were underweight and 4.9% severely underweight. Majority of the respondents ate energy-dense foods while only a few ate fruits, vegetables, milk and milk products. Clinical signs of malnutrition found in respondents included mottled enamel, cavity, pallor of skin, ridged nails and lethargic behavior. There was significant relationship between BMI of the respondents and their dietary intake. There was significant inverse relationship between BMI and the clinical manifestation of wizened face (wasted facial muscle). CONCLUSIONS: The study concludes that majority of the disabled children (8–10 years) in Oshimili South Local Government Area, had normal body mass index. However, the significant level of overweight recorded was attributed to reduced physical activity. The study has proved that disability is not a detaring factor to good nutritional standing. FUNDING SOURCES: The research was self funded by the two authors.