Assessment of Nutritional and Subjective Health Status 0f Chronically Ill Children Aged 7-15 Years Attending Special Schools in Lahore

Abstract

Background Malnutrition adversely impacts the health of chronically ill children, increasing the risk of infections, disabilities, and even mortality. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the nutritional and subjective health status of children aged 7-15 years with chronic diseases attending special schools. Methods A total of 172 children with chronic diseases attending seven schools for the disabled (Blind and Physically disabled) were included in the study. Socio-demographic parameters of nutritional status and subjective health status were assessed using questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. Malnutrition status was assessed as acute malnutrition (<-2 SDS for WFH) and chronic malnutrition (<-2 SDS for HFA). Malnutrition risk was evaluated using the STRONGkids screening tool. The EQ-5D tool was used to assess subjective health status. Results Malnutrition prevalence was 52.9% among children with 19.2% acute and 30.2% chronic. Based on the STRONGkids questionnaire, 11.6% of children were at high risk and 31.4% were at moderate risk for developing malnutrition. Caretakers from different schools reported some/severe problems in health status dimensions of mobility 64%, self-care 45%, usual activities 45%, pain 49%, and anxiety/discomfort 36% in children. The mean VAS score was 67.5 (SD 11.8). Malnutrition explained 31% of the variation in the VAS score. Conclusions The presence of malnutrition among chronically ill children going to special schools was significantly associated with low subjective health status. Addressing malnutrition can improve the subjective health status of chronically-ill children.