Nutrition status and the risk of mortality in children 6-36 months old in Tanzania

Abstract

Anthropometric measurements were taken on 2452 children between six and 36 months of age at baseline and at two-month intervals thereafter in rural Tanzania. The children were followed for one year. All deaths occurring in this group were recorded using a village registration system introduced as part of a village nutrition status monitory system. Low weight for age (<60% of the standard) was associated with a nine-fold increase in risk compared to weight for age above 80%; low weight for height (<80%) carried an almost fourfold increase in risk compared to weight for height >90%; and low height for age had a twofold increase in risk compared to the normal categories. An overall linear relationship was found between nutrition status and mortality, suggesting a gradual increase in mortality as nutrition status deteriorates. Incremental weight appears to be a good short-term predicator of mortality. -from Authors