Acute Malnutrition among Under-Five Children in Faryab, Afghanistan: Prevalence and Causes

This article explores the prevalence and causes of acute malnutrition among children under five in Faryab, Afghanistan. A cross-sectional study conducted in 600 households found that 35% of children had acute malnutrition, with 6.7% suffering from severe acute malnutrition (SAM). Poor maternal education, low household income, inadequate feeding practices, and poor water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) conditions were significant contributing factors.

Findings suggest that improving education, income, and WASH conditions can substantially reduce child malnutrition. The study emphasizes the need for targeted public health policies to combat malnutrition in Afghanistan.

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