Burden of Malnutrition in Children Under 5 Years in Nigeria: Problem Definition, Ethical Justification and Recommendations

Abstract

Malnutrition is a significant public health problem and it is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in children below 5 years of age. The proportion of this disease is much higher in sub-Saharan countries than in other geographical regions globally. The aim of this article was to identify the factors that contributed to malnutrition, critically analyze them and provide logical recommendations. Some of the factors influencing the nutritional status of children under the age of five were educational and economic status of the parents, especially the mother, health and nutritional status of the mothers during pregnancy and breastfeeding, immunization status of the child and the political system of the country. Recommended interventions included; health education, female empowerment, nutrition and government participation.