Prevalence and Predictors of Nutrition among Primary School Children in Aden, Yemen

Background and Objective: The prevalence of undernutrition among children has been extensively investigated, however research on undernutrition among school children and in urban areas in Yemen has been sparse. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of undernutrition among primary school children in Aden, Yemen. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study of primary school children in grades I through VI was done in government schools. A basic questionnaire was used to collect data, which included demographic and social information as well as weight and height measurements using standard instruments. Results: A total of 525 school children took part in the study, with 55% of them being boys and 45% being girls. The prevalence of underweight (18.5%), stunting (16.7%) and wasting (10.1%) were recorded. In comparison to the boys, the girls were more underweight and stunted. In this study, undernutrition among school children was predicted by the mothers’ age, fathers' income and household food insecurity. Father's income (b = 17.28) was the major predictor of undernutrition, followed by household food insecurity (b = 2.11). Conclusion: In Aden, Yemen, 38% of schoolchildren were undernourished and increasing fathers' income along with reducing household food insecurity, as well as taking into account the age of mothers, could help battle undernutrition among school children.