Toggle Main Menu Toggle Search

Open Access padlockePrints

Nutritional and cognitive status of entry-level primary school children in Zomba, rural Malawi

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Gerry O'BrienORCiD

Downloads

Full text for this publication is not currently held within this repository. Alternative links are provided below where available.


Abstract

Entry-level Malawian children (n = 226) aged 6–8 years from two public primary schools, one a participant in a national school feeding programme (FP), the other not, were investigated for differences in nutritional and cognitive status. Stunted growth (42%) and underweight (25%) were prevalent, with no significant differences between the schools, although the school attended was a significant predictor of mid-upper arm circumference. Previous attendance at a community-based childcare centre was significantly associated with lower body weight and height. There were no significant differences in memory, reversal learning and attention outcomes between the schools. These findings report no major significant difference in nutrition or cognitive statuses between the schools, and on this basis suggest that both schools were equally in need of FP participation. More inclusive interventions and broadening/review of FP participation criteria are recommended.


Publication metadata

Author(s): Nkhoma OW, Duffy ME, Davidson PW, Cory-Slechta D, McSorley EM, Strain JJ, O'Brien GM

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition

Year: 2013

Volume: 64

Issue: 3

Pages: 282-291

Print publication date: 01/05/2013

ISSN (print): 0963-7486

ISSN (electronic): 1465-3478

Publisher: Informa Healthcare

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.3109/09637486.2012.746287

DOI: 10.3109/09637486.2012.746287


Altmetrics

Altmetrics provided by Altmetric


Share