(P27-084-25) Prevalence and Determinants of Malnutrition and Micronutrient Deficiencies Among Children (6–59 Months) and Women of Reproductive Age Group (15–49 Years) in Tajikistan

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of malnutrition indicators such as stunting, anemia, and vitamin A deficiency (VAD) among children and reproductive-age women in the GBAO region and to identify key socioeconomic and health-related factors influencing these outcomes.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in the GBAO region, covering six districts. Stratified two-stage sampling selected 500 children and 500 women from sampled households. Data collection employed a validated tool to gather information on socioeconomic status, food security, maternal health, and anthropometric and biochemical measurements. Hemoglobin and serum vitamin A levels were analyzed, and altitude-adjusted hemoglobin levels were calculated. Statistical analysis included binary logistic regression to determine associations between malnutrition and various sociodemographic factors.

Results: Among children, 18.4% were stunted, 3.4% experienced wasting, and 15.4% were anemic, while 21.3% suffered from VAD. For women, 9.0% were underweight, 28.5% were overweight or obese, 17.3% had anemia, and 40.9% were affected by VAD. Risk factors for stunting included lower maternal education and lower socioeconomic status, while anemia was strongly associated with younger age and maternal anemia. VAD prevalence was significantly linked to food insecurity. Among women, underweight was associated with age and parity, whereas higher socioeconomic status correlated with increased overweight and obesity rates.

Conclusions: Our findings highlight the pressing need for targeted nutritional interventions in the GBAO region to address the dual burden of malnutrition. Enhancing maternal education, improving household food security, and implementing region-specific nutritional support programs are critical strategies to reduce malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies and promote sustainable health outcomes.

Funding Sources: N/A