BONE HEALTH ASSESSMENT AND PROFILING IN CHILDREN WITH SEVERE ACUTE MALNUTRITION STUDY FROM LARKANA.

JPUMHS; 2025:15:01,57-63. http://doi.org/10.46536/jpumhs/2025/15.01.596

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Malnutrition in children is a significant public health and growth issue
in Pakistan. Children who suffer from malnutrition are much more likely to die and suffer
from illnesses. OBJECTIVE: A prospective study was conducted in a PEDS ward of
Nutrition Shaikh Zaid Hospital Larkana, to determine the status of Bone Profile and associated
risk factors in severe acute malnutrition in children up to 5 years of age. METHODS: A total
of 105 patients with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) who were admitted to our PAEDS
nutrition ward and met the inclusion criteria were included in the study, which lasted six
months. Following a thorough history and examination, the patients' calcium, phosphorus,
alkaline phosphatase, and vitamin D levels were assessed. RESULTS: The study examined
105 patients, mainly females, with a higher mean age and majority living in cities. Symptoms
included fever, weight loss, cough, and diarrhea. Laboratory tests revealed significant
biochemical imbalances, including low vitamin D levels, calcium, ALP, and phosphorus
levels. These imbalances could impact health outcomes and require additional therapeutic
care. The case group's vitamin D levels were significantly lower than the control group.
CONCLUSION: The study found that the patient group had serious health imbalances, such
as low levels of calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and ALP, which called for therapeutic care
and focused interventions.