Evaluación de una atención integrada contra la desnutrición infantil en áreas urbanas de Nayarit, México

Abstract

Objective. To assess the association between coverage of the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) strategy and the prevalence of stunting in children 6 to 36 months of age. Material and Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted in two urban areas of Nayarit, Mexico, in August 2002. Anthropometry, health care for mothers and their children, morbidity and socioeconomic data were collected by means of household interviews. Statistical analyses were performed with chi-squared tests, Fisher's exact test, and logistic regression. Results. IMCI coverage rates were as follows: immunization 97%, vitamin A supplementation 66.9%, deworming with albendazole 91.5%, nutritional surveillance 50%, maternal health education 25.5%, maternal health care 24.4%, and 2.5% overall. The prevalence of stunting was 4.9%, and was statistically associated with incomplete courses of vitamin A supplementation and albendazole deworming. Conclusions. Coverage of IMCI components varied according to their feasibility and time of implementation. The associations between IMCI and failure to thrive highlight the importance of obtaining more information about its effects on the nutritional status of children. This will help to improve prevention strategies against child malnutrition.