Prevalence and Profile of Malnutrition in Under-Five Children with Congenital Heart Diseases in Cairo University Pediatric Hospitals

Abstract

Background: Malnutrition among children with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) is considered a major public health problem causing significant impact on children morbidity and mortality. Objectives: The study aimed to assess the prevalence and epidemiological pattern of malnutrition among under-five Egyptian children with CHD. Methods: A cross sectional analytical study design included 300 children, having uncomplicated CHD. Hemoglobin level, serum iron and total iron binding capacity were recorded. Additionally, Anthropometric measurements were assessed and Z scores were calculated for weight for age (WAZ), weight for height (WHZ), and height for age (HAZ) have been calculated. Malnutrition was defined as weight, height, and weight/height Z score