A study of clinico-demographical profile, risk factors and outcome of moderate acute malnutrition

Objectives: The objectives are to evaluate the clinical and demographical profile of children admitted with moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) and to assess the precipitating factors of MAM with evaluation of Nutritional Rehabilitation Centres (NRCs) in providing therapeutic care for these children. Material and Methods: A hospital-based prospective observational study was conducted over 13 months (August 2023–September 2024) at the NRC of Sri Narasimha Raja District Hospital, Kolar, Karnataka. A total of 160 children aged 6 months–5 years diagnosed with MAM were enrolled. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, feeding practices, anthropometry, clinical features and laboratory parameters were collected using standardised methods. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 22. Results: Majority of the children were aged 13–24 months (36.25%) and belonged to lower socioeconomic strata, predominantly Class IV (75.63%). Most of the mothers were uneducated (59.4%). Exclusive breastfeeding was reported in 69.38% of children, and 72.5% had birth weight ≥2.5 kg. Common clinical presentations included fever (66%), anaemia (58.7%) and cough (58.1%). The mean weight gain was 6.66 g/kg/day, with 78.75% of children achieving the recommended weight gain. No mortality was reported during the study. Conclusion: MAM was most prevalent among younger children and was strongly associated with socioeconomic disadvantage and low maternal education. NRC-based management demonstrated favourable short-term outcomes. Strengthening maternal education, optimal feeding practices and sustained follow-up may further improve recovery and prevent relapse.