Prevalencia de anemia y desnutrición en menores de 5-15 años en la comunidad San Juan de Puerto Nuevo del Cantón El Carmen, provincia de Manabí

Abstract

This research project aimed to determine the prevalence of anemia and malnutrition in children and teenagers from 5 to 15 years of age, at the community of San Juan de Puerto Nuevo from the canton El Carmen, province of Manabí. The sample size was 65 participants who met the inclusion criteria. For the data collection, a survey was applied, the nutritional status was assessed through anthropometric measures that allowed to establish the indicators; Height/Age, Weight/Age, and Body Mass Index/Age according to the World Health Organization (WHO) in order to assess the level of malnutrition. For the methodology, the extraction of venous blood was carried out with the correct biosafety measures, through the study of erythrocyte indicators. The confirmation of anemia was determined from a venous blood smear. Through the Pearson statistic test the possible relationship between the variables was analyzed; anemia and malnutrition; with the application of the survey the associated factors were determined. The results showed a prevalence of 33.33% of anemia; 31.74% corresponded to slight anemia and 1.59% to moderate anemia. Therefore, malnutrition obtained 7.7%, a 4.62% being chronic malnutrition and a 3.08% global malnutrition. Anemia was related to chronic malnutrition as well as other factors associates such as little meat consumption per week and limited access to Health care. It was concluded that the lack of knowledge has led to the existence of a considered index of anemia on the contrary to malnutrition that occurs slightly, therefore, it is recommended to educate the community on important issues related to a healthy diet and eating issues so they can afford a better quality of life.