Factors associated with nutritional status among young children in St. Vincent

Abstract

A survey was undertaken in 1975 in St. Vincent, West Indies, among the mothers of nearly all 1-2 yr old children in 2 towns. The mean weight for age was 85% of the Boston Standard and the mean weight for height was 92.5% of the standard. Levels of malnutrition were similar to those found in a national survey 8 yr earlier. Using multiple regression analysis, the variable which had the greatest impact on nutritional status (weight for age) was economic level of living. Next in importance came length of breastfeeding, attendance at postnatal clinics and (with a negative association) the number of siblings. Efforts to solve the energy-protein malnutrition problem must seek to eradicate poverty, but should not neglect the importance of breastfeeding, child spacing and appropriate health care.