Nutrional status of children under two years of age in Kherlen soum, Khentii province
- VernacularTitle:Хэнтий аймгийн Хэрлэн сумын 2 хүртэлх насны хүүхдийн хоол тэжээлийн байдал
- Author:
Oyunchimeg B
1
;
Gereljargal B
1
Author Information
1. Ach Medical University
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
complementary feeding;
exclusive breastfeeding;
malnutrition;
Mongolia;
nutritional status;
overweight;
stunting
- From:Mongolian Medical Sciences
2026;215(1):102-109
- CountryMongolia
- Language:Mongolian
-
Abstract:
Background:Optimal nutrition during infancy is critical for growth, development, and long-term health
outcomes. Globally, child malnutrition remains a major public health concern, with a growing
shift from undernutrition to a dual burden that includes overweight and obesity. In Mongolia,
national surveys indicate declining undernutrition but rising overnutrition among young
children.
Objective:To assess the nutritional status and feeding practices of children aged 0–23 months in
Kherlen soum
Material and Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted among 166 children aged 0–23 months using
systematic random sampling. Data were collected through caregiver questionnaires and
anthropometric measurements. Nutritional status was assessed using WHO Anthro software
(Z-scores). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS-26, applying chi-square and
t-tests at a 95% confidence level.
Results :Early breastfeeding initiation was high (94.6%), but exclusive breastfeeding among 0–5
months was low (43.9%). Continued breastfeeding declined with age (p<0.05). Appropriate
complementary feeding frequency was observed in 71%, and 68.8% met minimum dietary
diversity. Stunting (1.8%) and wasting (0.6%) were low, with no acute malnutrition. However,
37.8% were at risk of overweight, increasing with age.
Conclusion:Exclusive breastfeeding rates among infants aged 0–5 months remain suboptimal.
Undernutrition (stunting and wasting) is low among children under two years.
A considerable proportion of children are at risk of overweight, indicating a growing double
burden of malnutrition
- Full text:2026070409042664469MAUS-2026-215(1)-102-109.pdf
