Identifier: TDX:2844
Authors: López Toledo, Sabina
Abstract:
Cross-sectional study with 402 schoolchildren (6-12 years old) with the objective of evaluating nutritional status, neuropsychological functioning and behavior in two socioeconomically different situations: a rural area in extreme poverty with a National Food Program and another urban area in transition nutritional without program. Food consumption was assessed (24-hour recall and frequency of food consumption questionnaire), energy and nutrient intake, anthropometry (weight, height, skin folds and circumferences), biochemical status, neuropsychological functioning and behavior of the patients. school, in addition to the state of emotional health of mothers. Our results show different types of malnutrition between both areas. In the area of extreme poverty, the nutritional status of schoolchildren has improved, which is reflected by a high prevalence of normal weight (86.5%), adequate food intake and energy intake, and a lower prevalence of anemia (17.6%). %); however, a high prevalence of chronic malnutrition is observed (48.2%), probably established before the implementation of the Food Program. On the other hand, the process of nutritional transition areas the urban school population in a state of malnutrition both by default and by excess, characterized by an unhealthy diet (high in superfluous foods and low in fruits and vegetables) and with high prevalences of thinness (21.8%), excess weight (20.7%) and anemia (31.7%). Both areas have a high probability of inadequate intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamin A, vitamin D and iron. Schoolchildren in the area in extreme poverty have a lower performance in neuropsychological tests than those in the area in nutritional transition. The deficit of vitamin B complex and vitamin D, the presence of chronic malnutrition and anemia are related to the lower neuropsychological operation.
Repositori URV