International Journal of Child Health and Nutrition

Predictive Model of Stunting in Children 6-59 Months of Age in Kirundo Health District, Burundi

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among a randomly selected sample of 374 households with at least one child aged 6 to 59 months in the Kirundo health district, Burundi. Sociodemographic, socioeconomic, socio-sanitary factors, food insecurity, behavioral, and environmental data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Children's weight was measured using a standard procedure (SECA scale), their height using a standard UNICEF height rod, and their age was obtained from the birth certificate. Anthropometric data were analyzed using Emergency Nutrition Assessment (ENA for Smart) software.

Modeling was performed using logistic regression to eliminate confounding factors, and all independent variables with a significance level less than or equal to 20% in the bivariate analysis were included to explore factors associated with stunting in children aged 6 to 59 months.

In this study, the prevalence of stunting is estimated at 61.5%. According to multivariate logistic regression, sex (AOR = 2.83; 95% CI:1.40-5.75), age (AOR= 10.40; 95% CI: 1.21-88.30), food insecurity (AOR = 10.47;95% CI: 3.58-30.61), latrine type (AOR = 6.83; 95% CI: 3.12-14.94), diarrhea (AOR = 2.56; 95% CI: 1.19-5.48), water source (AOR = 3.17; 95% CI: 1.54-6.52), media exposure (AOR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.11-0.51), nutritional knowledge (AOR = 0.11; 95% CI: 0.05-0.25), birth spacing (AOR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.16-0.93), complete vaccination (AOR = 0.06; 95% CI: 0.02-0.21), father's occupation (AOR = 0.25; 95% CI: 0.09-0.72), and mother's education (AOR = 0.21; 95% CI: 0.07-0.64) were significantly associated with stunting.

The predictive model showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.95, indicating excellent discrimination ability.

The high prevalence of stunting in this study highlights the importance of urgent action to end this problem.

Evaluation of Pulmonary Function Parameters in Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Kosuri Mahesh Varma, Shruti Sajjan, Keertivardhan Kulkarni, M.M. Patil — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by insulin deficiency. Emerging evidence suggests that type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) may contribute to pulmonary dysfunction in children.

Objectives: To evaluate pulmonary function changes in children with T1DM and assess the relationship of pulmonary function test (PFT) changes with glycemic control.

Methods: A total of 62 children aged 6–16 years were enrolled, including 32 with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and 30 healthy, age-matched controls. Spirometry parameters (FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, PEFR) and diffusion capacity (DLCO) were assessed. Diabetic children were subgrouped based on glycemic control (HbA1c < 9.5 vs. > 9.5).

Results: Children with T1DM had significantly lower FVC (p < 0.001), FEV1/FVC (p < 0.005), and DLCO (p < 0.03) compared to the control group. FEV1 and PEFR differences were not statistically significant. Among diabetic children, FEV1/FVC was significantly reduced in those with an HbA1c level greater than 9.5 (p = 0.003).

Conclusion: Children with T1DM demonstrate early pulmonary impairment, especially restrictive changes with mixed ventilatory defects and decreased diffusion capacity. Routine spirometric screening may aid early detection of respiratory complications in pediatric diabetes.

Exploring Parents' Motivations for Sharenting and Consequences for Children's Well-Being

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: This literature review uses thematic analysis to identify common themes and topics in recent literature on the perceptions, attitudes, and motivations towards parents’ sharenting behavior.

Objective: This study investigates perspectives on sharenting—the practice of parents posting content about their children on social media—and the rationale behind this behavior. As digital platforms become more integrated into family life, understanding the motives for sharing is critical for assessing their social, ethical, and developmental consequences.

Methods: Articles were selected through a literature search. We eliminated articles that included sharenting, sharenting practices in Malaysia, impression management and sharenting, and reinforcement theory and sharenting. 41 articles were chosen and reviewed to identify the main topics of discussion.

Findings: This study identifies major motives for sharing, as revealed through qualitative interviews and surveys with parents and social media users, including a need for social connection, community support, and documenting parenting milestones. The findings reflect a variety of viewpoints on the practice, with some seeing sharing as a way to celebrate parenting and develop relationships. In contrast, others are concerned about privacy and the digital legacy left for children.

Conclusion: By analyzing these perspectives, the study contributes to the broader discussion of digital parenting practices and sheds light on the balance between sharing and privacy in the digital era. This study emphasizes the importance of raising parental awareness and providing help as they navigate the difficulties of social media sharing.

Recommendation: These results serve as a reference for future child psychology and mental health research. Thus, it is recommended that parental sharenting behavior be further explored, and a suitable legal framework should be established in Malaysia to govern and manage this issue before violations related to sharenting, such as digital kidnapping and cyberbullying, become difficult to address in the Malaysian context.

Genetic and Immunological Determinants of Atopic Dermatitis: A Systematic Review

Maria Zofia Lisiecka — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Purpose: The present work aimed to study the role of genetic and immunological factors in the development of atopic dermatitis (AD).

Material and Methods: A thorough systematic search of relevant information on AD presented in the PubMed, ResearchGate, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases for 2010-2023 was carried out. The total number of studies included was 50, with a primary focus on genetic association studies, epigenetic studies, and microbiome studies.

Results: The etiopathogenetic mechanisms of the pathogenesis remain under active investigation. It has been determined that the primary factors in the occurrence of AD pathology are the interaction between genetic abnormalities and environmental factors, including climatic factors (temperature, humidity), geographic location (urban vs. rural), air pollution (e.g., particulate matter, ozone), dietary influences (e.g., fat intake, allergens), and exposure to microbes (e.g., pets, infections). An imbalance of the normal intestinal microbiota is a significant predisposing factor. The pathogenetic basis of the disease is an inflammatory process with activation of the T-cell immune response and dysfunction of the genes encoding filaggrin, transglutaminase, and keratin. These disorders lead to increased permeability of the skin barrier and unhindered penetration of allergens. AD is a heterogeneous, multifaceted condition characterised by various endotypes, phenotypes, and clinical subtypes. It frequently commences in early childhood, during the maturation of the immune system and skin barrier. Typical symptoms encompass xerosis, erythema, and pruritus, with affected children exhibiting increased sensitivity to benign irritants, indicative of early immunological dysregulation.

Conclusion: AD substantially lowers quality of life and presents mental health risks, especially in young patients. The early onset underscores the necessity for swift action to facilitate immunological development and protect child health.

Multifactorial Determinants of Stunting among Under-Five Children in Tambun Tulang Village, South Coastal District, Indonesia

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Stunting is a chronic condition of impaired growth in children under five, primarily due to long-term malnutrition. It is identified using the height-for-age (TB/U) indicator, where a Z-score below -2 standard deviations (SD) from the WHO child growth standards signifies stunting. In Kenagarian IV Koto Hilie, 53 children (8.32%) were recorded as stunted. Although malnutrition can begin during pregnancy or shortly after birth, it often becomes evident when the child reaches two years of age.

Objective: This study aimed to identify the factors influencing the incidence of stunting among toddlers in Kampung Bukit Tambun Tulang.

Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional study design was employed. The population consisted of 173 toddlers, with a sample of 63 selected through simple random sampling. Primary data were collected via structured interviews using questionnaires, and secondary data were sourced from Kenagarian IV Koto Hilie health reports. Data analysis included univariate and bivariate methods, with the chi-square test employed to identify associations.

Results: The study found that 57.1% of the sampled toddlers were stunted. Bivariate analysis revealed significant relationships between stunting and maternal knowledge (p = 0.003), family income (p = 0.022), and nutritious food intake (p = 0.016).

Conclusion: Stunting is closely linked to maternal education, socioeconomic conditions, and child nutrition. Health workers should provide targeted education to promote behavioral change and improve parenting practices. Structured family coaching is recommended to support nutritional fulfillment and prevent stunting during early childhood development.

The Role of Lifestyle Behaviors in Early Childhood Obesity: Insights from Pre-School Populations

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Aim: Childhood obesity is an escalating global health concern. Identifying modifiable risk factors is crucial to inform effective prevention strategies. This study explored lifestyle behaviors, including chrono-nutrition and sedentary behaviors, associated with overweight/obesity among Saudi pre-school children.

Methods: This cross-sectional study of 450 children aged 3-6 years from 20 pre-schools assessed chrono-nutrition, sedentary, and sleep behaviors through questionnaires filled by parents/guardians. Height, weight, and skinfold thickness were measured. BMI was calculated using International Obesity Task Force classifications for children aged 2-18.

Results: Overweight/obesity prevalence in preschoolers was 22.67%. Weight, skinfold, and body fat percentage were significantly higher among the overweight/obese group (p<0.001). A significant association (p=0.009) was observed between sleeping time and BMI. However, insignificant associations were observed between BMI and chrono-nutrition or physical activity. Logistic regression analysis revealed that evening (OR=0.142, 95%CI: 0.024-0.834, p=0.031) and irregular screen time (OR=0.162, 95%CI: 0.036-0.730, p=0.018) as well as more than two hours of napping (OR=0.268, 95%CI: 0.073-0.987, p=0.048) were associated with lower odds of overweight or obesity status.

Conclusions: Selected lifestyle behaviors exhibited significant associations with lower overweight/obesity among preschoolers. Future studies on pre-school children's lifestyle behaviors are warranted to enhance preventive health education and health promotion among young children.

Optimizing Physical Performance and Nutritional Strategies for Young Basketball Players: Training Load Distribution and Recovery Approaches

Ferdinand Mara, Migena Plasa — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: This study examines the optimization of physical load distribution in young basketball players while integrating nutritional strategies to enhance performance, recovery, and overall health. Proper nutrition supports endurance, muscle function, injury prevention, and physiological development in young athletes, making it essential in conjunction with structured training.

Method: This study employs a scoping review methodology to analyze recent literature on the physical performance and nutrition of young basketball players. It synthesizes findings from studies published between 2014 and 2024, focusing on training strategies, nutritional practices, and their impact on the physical development of athletes. The review examines factors such as exercise routines, hydration, macronutrient and micronutrient intake, and post-exercise recovery strategies to optimize performance and ensure long-term health for youth athletes.

Results: The review identifies key factors that influence youth basketball performance, including structured training, proper nutrition, and hydration. It emphasizes the importance of balanced macronutrient intake and targeted interventions to enhance strength, endurance, and recovery, thereby optimizing physical development.

Conclusions: A holistic approach that combines structured training with tailored nutrition plans is essential for enhancing youth basketball performance and promoting long-term health.

Comprehensive Overview of Preterm Developmental Supportive Care: Narrative Review

Hasan Saud Abdul Hussein, Adraa Hussein Shawq — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Preterm infants face significant health challenges due to the underdevelopment of their organ systems. The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is considered a stressful environment, which can disrupt self-regulation and maturation. Developmental supportive care strategies have been shown to enhance neurodevelopmental outcomes in neonates by mimicking intrauterine conditions, reducing stress, and providing appropriate sensory stimulation. Nursing interventions, particularly developmental care, are essential in improving neonatal health, with nurses playing a pivotal role in implementing these strategies.

Aim: This article aimed to provide a comprehensive narrative synthesis of recent research on the impact of developmental supportive care on the health outcomes of preterm infants.

Methods: An extensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library. Quantitative studies, quasi-experimental research, observational studies, and meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials published in English within the past decade were included, with a particular emphasis on studies from the last five years.

Results: The findings indicated that the application of developmental supportive care strategies in the neonatal intensive care unit significantly improved health outcomes for preterm infants, as reported in previous studies.

Conclusion: This narrative overview demonstrated that developmental supportive care effectively contributes to the management and enhancement of preterm infants' health. The study recommends promoting and standardizing these practices in neonatal intensive care units, conducting a collective review of developmental supportive care techniques, and establishing training programs to improve health outcomes for preterm infants and identify effective interventions.