Abstract:

Background: Malnutrition in children with congenital heart defects [CHDs] has been linked to increased morbidity and mortality as indicated by frequent hospitalisation, poor surgical outcomes, persistent impairment of somatic growth and increased death. All types of malnutrition, and severe forms in particular, contribute to mortality in childhood. There is strong evidence that poor growth [ malnutrition] is associated with delayed mental development and poor school performance.The mechanisms for growth deficiency in CHD are multifactorialand include associated chromosomal anomalies/ genetic syndromes, inadequate nutritional intake due to feeding difficulties, and poor absorption of nutrients from digestive tract in chronic congestive heart failure. Also increased calories are required to sustain the increased myocardial, respiratory and neuro-humoral functions in CHD-related heart failure. Chronic CHF and chronic hypoxemia in CHD impair cellular metabolism and cell growth. Other mechanisms of growth deficiency in CHD have been reported.The WHO recommends the WHO/National Center for Health Statistics [NCHS] growth standards for nutrition surveys.The present study aims to describe the prevalence, profile and predictors of malnutrition using recommended case definitions.The findings of present study could be applied to current and future paediatric cardiac care practice.

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