Anthropometic survey of preschool children in Jahrom, 2011-12.

Introduction: Anthropometrical surveys are used extensively to evaluate the growth of children as a strong tool for evaluation of the growth and nutritional status of children in various populations. This study was conducted on preschool children in Jahrom to evaluate the prevalence of underweight, stunting, wasting and obesity among them. Material and Method: In this cross-sectional study, 984 children referring to heath assessment center were evaluated. Sampling in this study was based on census and all the children studied. At baseline, the percentile and Z-Score of who wasting, stunting, underweight, overweight and obese school children were determined. Results: 984 infants (51.5boys) were enrolled in the study. Analysis of data through standard percentile and Z-Score showed wasting in 1.8%, 1.2%, Stunting 3.8%, 1.5%, underweight 2.4%, 1.2%, overweight 13.3%, 6.5% and obesity 10.9%, 9.7% of children. Conclusion: Comparison of the results of this study with other studies performed in Iran revealed that prevalence of underweight, wasting and stunting is not height. However, the high prevalence of overweight and obesity should be taken into account by authorities. Serious overview of children's nutritional program and recommending the appropriate pattern of nutrition for this group seem to be necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]