Treatment Outcome of uncomplicated Severe acute malnutrition at Outpatient therapeutic feeding program Aged 6 Months To 59 Months Over a Period of twelve years at territory care hospital Multan

Abstract

Abstract

Background:

Children with Severe Acute Malnutrition are immunodeficient and are at increased risk of infections. WHO guidelines recommend outpatient care for uncomplicated SAM to reduce these risks.

Objective:

This study analyzed the treatment outcome of uncomplicated Severe acute malnutrition at Outpatient Therapeutic Program in children aged 6 months to 59 months.

Study design: a retrospective cohort study design was used

Place and duration of study: Outpatient Therapeutic feeding program of Children Hospital and Institute of Child Health, Multan, from 01.01.2011-31.12.2022.

Materials and methods:

this study analyzed children diagnosed with malnutrition, screened from all the children aged 6–59 months at Outpatient Therapeutic feeding program. Data included demographics, anthropometric measurements, and treatment outcomes, with biweekly monitoring of weight, height, and response to therapeutic interventions.

Results:

Out of 17,793 children registered as malnourished, 10,733 were diagnosed with Severe Acute Malnutrition, predominantly affecting children under 36 months (85%), with 90% diagnosed as Marasmus. Moderate Acute Malnutrition was found in 7,060 children. Referrals primarily came from the hospital subspecialties (60%), with self-referrals at 30% and community referrals at 10%. The SAM recovery rate was 85%, with an average weight gain of 11 g/kg/day and a 15% defaulter rate, while the average program stay for SAM cases was approximately 8 ± 1 week.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates the effectiveness of the Outpatient Therapeutic Program (OTP) in achieving effective recovery and weight gain. Early detection and community-based care are crucial for reducing malnutrition and enhancing pediatric health outcomes.