Factors associated with stunting among pre-primary children aged 3 to 5 years, in Rwamwanja Refugee Camp, Kamwenge District

Abstract

Introduction / Background The prevalence of stunting in Uganda has been estimated at 29% and still remains high. This is worsened in vulnerable populations like those living in refugee settlement. Stunting is responsible for poor cognitive development, repeated infections, diminished ability, low school achievement, and reduced lifelong productivity among all children. There is limited data on the prevalence and factors associated with stunting among pre -primary children aged 3 to 5 years in Rwamwanja refugee settlement camp, there fore this research will provide more evidence on what factors are associated with stunting among pre-primary children aged 3-5 years in Rwamwanja refugee camp, Kamwenge district . Study objective To determine the prevalence and the factors associated with stunting among pre -primary children aged 3 to 5 years in Rwamwanja refugee camp, Kamwenge district. Methodology A cross sectional study involving the use of both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection in households was used. Quantitative data was obtained using semi-structured questionnaire, anthropometric measures through use of the height board on the child and face-to- face interviews with the mother using an interviewer administered questionnaire. Anthropometric data was entered into ENA software to assess stunting. Bivaraiate analysis was conducted using Stata 16 software. Qualitative data was collected through key informant interviews with VHTs, nutritionist, public health officer , and providers of food related services like project officers. Qualitative data was analysed manually using the thematic content analysis. Results The stunting levels in the Rwamwanja Refugee Camp among pre-primary children was 26.3%. The study revealed that no socio-demographic factor was statistically associated with stunting. Breastfeeding, the time at which child ceased breast feeding, subjections of food taboos to children, children adhering to immunization schedule and children sleeping under a treated mosquito net were statistically associated with stunting. Conclusions Since the stunting levels in the Rwamwanja Refugee Camp among pre-primary children is high 26.3%, breastfeeding, the time at which child ceased breast feeding, subjections of food taboos to children, children adhering to immunization schedule need a multisectoral collaboration to reduce stunting.