Pattern of Growth Disorders among Children Attending Well Baby Clinics-PHCs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction: Normal pediatric growth is an important indicator of well-being, while abnormal growth is associated with adverse physical and psychosocial outcomes. This study evaluates the pattern of growth disorders in children younger than two years. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the primary healthcare centers affiliated with Prince Sultan Military Medical City (PSMMC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from September 2021 to October 2021. The physician obtained anthropometric measures for each child and administered a questionnaire to the parents to gather information about patient demographics, antenatal history, breastfeeding history, and medical history of the infant. Logistic regression, multivariate analysis, and ANOVA tests were performed. Results: 384 children were included in the study with a mean age of 9.4 ± 6.3 months. Age below six months (OR: 0.119, CI: 0.031-0.455, p=0.002), low birth weight (OR: 3.067, CI: 1.135-8.288 p=0.027), and delivery before 37 weeks of gestation (OR=0.372, CI: 0.136-1.012, p=0.053) were strongly associated with stunting. Low birth weight (OR=3.712, CI: 1.111-12.396, p=0.033) and history of cardiovascular disease (OR=3.758, CI: 0.950-14.857, p=0.059) were strongly associated with underweight. Conclusion: Age, mother’s occupation, low birth weight, delivery before 37 weeks of gestation, and history of cardiovascular disease are important factors associated with children’s early growth. Careful evaluation and screening of growth disorders in children visiting healthcare facilities are fundamental to prompt early diagnosis and optimal management.