Nutritional Status of Children with Beta Thalassemia Major

Abstract

Background. Children with beta thalassemia major are at risk for poor nutritional status, which can lead to signifcant health problems. It is essential to evaluate the level of malnutrition among individuals.

The aim. To assess the nutritional status of children with beta thalassemia major using body mass index.

Methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted at the District Branch of the Indian Red Cross Society in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The purposive sampling technique was used to select 119 children with beta thalassemia major as participants. The nutritional status of children aged 8 to 18 years was assessed from September 2021 to December 2021.

Results. Out of the 119 participants, 56 (47%) were female and 63 (53%) were male. The mean height was 150.82 ± 22.44 cm, the mean weight was 34.71 ± 11.62 kg, and the mean BMI was 15.28 ± 4.25. Out of a total of 119 patients, 62.18% were underweight, 31.93% were healthy, and 5.88% were overweight. 55% of females and 68% of males were underweight. There is a statistically signifcant association between age and nutrition status (P=0.04). The data depicts a statistically significant association between family monthly income and nutrition status (P=0.013).

Conclusion. Results of this study showed that the majority of the children with thalassemia were underweight. There is a statistical association between age, economic status, and nutritional status. There is a need to raise awareness about food and nutrition for children with beta thalassemia major.

Keywords: thalassemia major, body mass index (BMI), underweight, nutrition.