[Prevalence and factors associated with malnutrition in infants aged 6 to 23 months admitted to paediatric emergencies department at the Yalgado Ouédraogo University Hospital in Burkina Faso].

Introduction: Despite the implementation of various nutritional interventions, access to healthy food in sufficient quantity for the population remain challenging in Burkina Faso. The objective of this study was to assess the nutritional status of infants aged 6-23 months and to identify factors associated with malnutrition.
Patients and Methods: From 1 ^st May to 31th July 2016, we conducted a cross-sectional study at Yalgado Ouedraogo University Hospital paediatric department. Infants aged 6 to 23 months admitted to the paediatric emergency department were enrolled. Factors associated with malnutrition were identified using multivariate logistic regression.
Results: A total of 295 infants were included, at an average age of 13 months (standard deviation: 5.1 months). The prevalence of wasting was 15%, 13% was stuntingand 7% was underweight. The majority of mothers (69%) were unaware of exclusive breastfeeding and only 22% knew the importance of colostrum. In multivariate analysis age ≥ 12 months increased the odds of wasting (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.3, 95% confidence interval: 1.1-4.7), while knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding reduced the risk of wasting (aOR: 0.4, 95% CI 0.2-0.9). In addition, age ≥12 months (aOR: 0.08, 95% CI: 0.03-0.22), female gender (aOR: 0.31, 95% CI: 0.12-0.77) and absence of dietary restrictions (aOR: 0.13, 95% CI: 0.05-0.3) significantly reduced the odds of stunting.
Conclusion: The prevalence of malnutrition remains high in paediatric department in Burkina Faso. Routine screening and adequate management of malnutrition, coupled with the promotion of optimal nutritional practices in childhood, is needed to improve child healthcare.
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