Protein Energy Malnutrition among Children

Protein energy malnutrition (PEM) previously termed protein calorie malnutrition has assumed the position of being the leading cause of death directly or indirectly among children under five years of age in the developing world in the past fourty years, in spite of our wide knowledge and understanding of human nutritional requirements. A descriptive study was conducted among 109 under five children in Kottayam District. The main aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of PEM, and its association with selected demographic variables. The study population consisted of 109 under five children and their mothers attending selected anganwadiesofKottayam District, during the period of data collection. Purposive sampling was used to select the samples. Data were gathered by administering demographic proforma, observation record and dietary practice assessment questionnaire. Among the samples 41.28% had grade I PEM. No significant association was observed between protein energy malnutrition and age, gender, education of parents, occupation of parents, monthly income, number of children and type of family.