ASSESSMENT OF PLASMA PROTEINS, SODIUM, POTASSIUM, GLUCOSE, HEMOGLOBIN AND BODY MASS INDEX AMONG MALNOURISHED DISPLACED CHILDREN FROM AFFECTED AREAS WITH WAR IN KOSTI CITY, WHITE NILE STATE

Malnutrition results from an insufficient or unbalanced diet, leading to nutrient deficiencies and, in all grades, subsequent malabsorption. This study aimed to investigate and compare plasma total protein, albumin, globulin, haemoglobin, sodium, potassium, circumference, and BMI between malnourished and well-nourished displaced children. We included 100 cases and 100 control subjects. Plasma total protein, albumin, globulin, hemoglobin, MUAC and BMI were measured. The results showed significantly decreased levels of estimated age and body mass index; the study group were (2.98±1.20) (22.0±4.63), and the control group were (3.29±1.31) (23.99±7.0) (p=0.097) (p=0.022), respectively. Additionally, the results showed significantly decreased levels of estimated plasma total protein, albumin, haemoglobin, and mid-upper arm circumference in the study group compared with the control group (p=0.000, p=0.000, p=0.000, and p=0.000), respectively, and significantly increased levels of calculated globulin in the study group compared with the control group (p=0.000). There was an insignificant increase in the levels of plasma total protein, globulin, hemoglobin and circumference among malnourished males compared to malnourished females, and an insignificant increase in the levels of albumin in malnourished females compared to malnourished males. The study findings highlighted the link between plasma total protein, albumin, globulin, haemoglobin, and BMI and malnutrition, which is significant for predicting and assessing nutritional status in malnourished children under five years of age. Early detection and rapid screening for displaced children help reduce the harmful effects and progression of malnutrition.