iardia lamblia is considered the most common intestinal parasite in humans worldwide. Giardiasis is a major health problem with a great morbid effect on children's physical and cognitive development. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of giardiasis on children's growth, assess the serum levels of zinc, copper, and iron, also to study the relation between giardia infections and breastfeeding. Methods: this was a crosssectional study carried out on 200 children (1-3 years). They were recruited from the outpatient clinics of Al-Zahraa university hospital and National Nutrition Institute. 100 children were infected with giardiasis and 100 were healthy All the studied children were subjected to full history taking, complete clinical examination, anthropometric measures, complete blood count, stool analysis, and estimation of serum level of zinc, copper, and iron. Results: this study revealed an increase in giardiasis in patients with low socioeconomic levels. The prevalence of malnutrition among infected patients as regards Waterlaw's classification was 55% wasted, 42% stunted, and 42% were wasted & stunted. Anemia is more frequent in patients with giardiasis. There is a significant decrease in the level of serum zinc in infected children which was associated with high rates of diarrhea. Also, there was a significant decrease in serum iron. A statistically significant relation was found between children who received breast milk and protection against giardiasis. Conclusion: Giardiasis is regarded as a serious public health problem, as it causes iron-deficiency anemia, growth retardation in children, and other physical health problems.
here is a growing interest in the role of micronutrients in optimizing health and in the prevention or treatment of diseases. Except for vitamin D, micronutrients are not produced in the body and must be derived from the diet. Micronutrient deficiencies are also referred to as 'Hidden Hunger'. Objectives: First to study specific nutrient intakes among a group of children in different geographical areas representing Egypt. Second use the information on food patterns and consumption to overcome micronutrient malnutrition problems.
Subjects and Methods: This cross-section survey was carried out to study the food consumption pattern and specific nutrient intakes of children in different demographic areas of Egypt. Results showed the dietary information revealed micronutrient deficiencies in Egyptian children, as well as less-than-ideal intakes of important nutrients like calcium, iron, and vitamin A. ConclusionFuture studies, should be followed to a better understanding of the variables and barriers preventing Egyptian children from consuming the recommended amounts of micronutrients.
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