Prevalence and Determinants of Malnutrition Among Under-Five Children in Obuama Community, Rivers State, Nigeria: A Community-Based Analytical Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Malnutrition is a significant public health challenge, particularly among children under the age of five, with severe implications for growth, development, and long-term health outcomes. This study assessed the prevalence and determinants of malnutrition in children under five years old in Obuama Community, Degema Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria. Methods: An Analytical cross-sectional study was conducted using a multi-stage sampling technique for four months (19th August - 21st of November 2024). Anthropometric measurements, including mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), weight, height, and World Health Organization (WHO) growth standards, were used to assess the nutritional status of 165 children. Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Product and Service Solution Package (SPSS) Version 27. Results: The study showed a low prevalence of acute malnutrition (2.4%) based on MUAC measurements. Among the children, 2.4% reported moderate undernutrition, 0.6% were overweight, and 1.2% were obese, using the BMI-for-age assessments. Substantially more malnutrition was also shown in children 36 months and older and in those with malaria (p < 0.05). The caregivers reported limited awareness of their children’s nutritional status, with 46.7% expressing uncertainty about whether their child was malnourished. Children aged above 48 months and malaria diagnosis were independent predictors of malnutrition (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Malnutrition was prevalent among children in Obuama community. The observation of both undernutrition and overnutrition (overweight and obesity) highlights a dual burden of malnutrition. The findings emphasized the need for targeted nutritional interventions, including caregivers’ education on proper infant and young child feeding practices, early detection of malnutrition, and strategies to address both undernutrition and obesity. Public health programs should also integrate malaria prevention and treatment as part of a comprehensive effort to reduce malnutrition.