International Journal of Child Health and Nutrition

Preschool Wheezing and Progress to Childhood Asthma

2025-05-16T22:50:36+00:00

Aim: This narrative review aims to identify key elements that facilitate the transition from recurrent episodes of wheezing to chronic inflammatory airway disease.

Methods: The article presents the results of numerous studies that identify the influence of genetic and environmental factors on the development of asthma in children. Whole-genome data analysis revealed novel genetic loci associated with various asthma phenotypes. Additionally, the study underscored the significance of environmental factors, such as air pollution and microbial colonization, in the disease's onset.

Results: The results provided a foundation for developing new prevention and treatment strategies for childhood asthma, emphasizing a personalized approach that considers each patient's unique genetic and environmental profile. The main findings indicate that up to 50% of children under 6 years old experience wheezing episodes, but only 30% of these children develop asthma. Data analysis demonstrated that both genetic and environmental factors significantly influence asthma development in children with preschool wheezing. Genetic research has identified several genes associated with early-onset asthma, including CDHR3, IL33, and genes at the 17q12-21 locus. Surrounding conditions such as viral infections, allergens, tobacco smoke, and the microbiome also play a substantial role in asthma development.

Conclusions: Understanding the relationship between hereditary and environmental influences in the advancement from preschool wheeze to asthma is crucial for developing effective prophylactic and treatment strategies. The study of factors influencing the development of asthma in children is important for understanding the mechanisms of disease formation and developing effective methods of prevention and treatment. Special attention is paid to the interaction of genetic and external factors influencing the early stages of pathogenesis.

Possibilities of Desensitisation to Pet Allergens: Prevention of Allergic Reactions in Children and Adults

2025-05-16T22:50:35+00:00

Purpose: The article aimed to study modern approaches to the desensitization of pet allergens, focusing on advanced therapeutic and diagnostic methods for managing and preventing allergic reactions in children and adults.

Material and Methods: The study used a theoretical analysis of scientific sources covering the molecular mechanisms of allergy, modern diagnostic methods, and therapeutic strategies.

Results: Global trends in the prevalence of allergies were examined, the role of molecular diagnostics and the latest desensitization methods, such as allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT), was assessed, and a comparison of traditional and innovative treatment approaches was made. The findings of the study demonstrate that pet allergy is a globally widespread problem affecting 20-30% of the population of developed countries, with the highest rates among urban populations. It has been established that molecular mechanisms, in particular the role of Fel d 1 and Can f 1, are key to developing an allergic reaction, which opens up opportunities for developing new therapeutic approaches. Modern diagnostic approaches, including molecular component analysis, basophil activation test, and multiplex tests, accurately detect allergens and determine severe reaction risk. Numerous clinical researches have indicated that ASIT utilizing modified allergens reduces allergy symptoms in people with Fel d 1 and Can f 1 sensitization.

Conclusion: These results highlight the importance of introducing modern diagnostic methods and personalized therapy in the treatment of animal allergies. This opens up new prospects for improving patients’ lives and reducing the socioeconomic burden of allergic diseases.

Hemodynamic Changes with Different Non-Invasive Respiratory Modes for Primary Respiratory Support in Preterm Neonates: A Randomized Controlled Trial

2025-05-16T22:50:34+00:00

Background: Non-invasive ventilation has improved the survival rate and treatment outcomes for preterm neonates with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). The hemodynamic changes that occur, particularly during the weaning period, and alternate non-invasive breathing strategies are not well understood.

Aim: To assess the hemodynamic changes that occur during and after non-invasive respiratory support and the comparative efficacy of nasal continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP) and nasal high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (NHFOV) as the primary non-invasive respiratory support for preterm neonates.

Methods: A randomized controlled study on 90 preterm neonates with RDS in need of non-invasive ventilation during their first 3 days of life, randomized into 3 groups: NHFOV, vapotherm, and NCPAP groups; 30 neonates for each group. Hemodynamic changes were assessed by echocardiography, pelviabdominal, and transcranial ultrasounds during and after discontinuation of the device.

Results: The NHFOV group had the lowest failure rate compared to the other two groups (p < 0.05). The Vapotherm group had a considerably shorter hospital stay and duration on non-invasive ventilation, faster reach to full enteral feeding, and lower nose trauma score (p < 0.05 for all). In terms of hemodynamic changes, the NCPAP group experienced a considerably higher percentage increase in left ventricular output (LVO) compared to the other two modalities (p < 0.001).

Conclusions: NHFOV had the lowest failure rate as a primary non-invasive respiratory support in preterm infants with RDS. However, the Vapotherm group showed a shorter hospital stay and duration on non-invasive respiratory support, quicker time to reach full oral feeding, and lower nasal trauma. The NCPAP group had a higher percentage of increment in LVO.

Adapted Physical Exercise as Therapy in Managing Obesity among Persons with Down Syndrome

2025-05-16T22:50:33+00:00

This study investigated the efficacy of adapted physical exercise in managing obesity among persons with Down Syndrome (ID) in selected special schools in Cross River state. Three null hypotheses were generated for the study. A quasi-experimental research design was adopted. Two special schools and 20 persons with DS were purposively selected from the Special Schools Centre, Ibom Layout, and the Special Education Centre, Ikom, both in Cross River State, Nigeria. The age distribution of the participants is between 6-16 years. Adapted physical activities were used as a therapeutic intervention for six weeks. Kilograms Assessment Scale (KAS) (0.76) was used as an instrument for data collection. ANCOVA was used for data analysis. Results indicated that persons with ID who received intervention (adapted physical exercise) had their body weight reduced. Age and sex did not affect the efficacy of the intervention. It was recommended that physical exercise should be adopted in the management of obesity among persons with DS.

Factors Associated with Underweight in Children Aged 6-59 Months in the Kibuye Health District, Gitega Health Province, Burundi

2025-05-16T22:50:32+00:00

The study, conducted in the Kibuye health district in Burundi, aimed to investigate the factors associated with underweight children aged 6-59 months.

An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 273 households with at least one randomly selected child aged 6-59 months in the Kibuye, Burundi health district. Socio-demographic, socio-economic, child morbidity, behavioral, and environmental data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Children's weight was measured using a standard procedure (seca scale), height was measured using a UNICEF standard height board, and age was obtained from the birth certificate. Anthropometric data were analyzed using Emergency Nutrition Assessment (ENA for Smart) software.

Modeling was performed using logistic regression to eliminate confounding factors, and all independent variables whose significance level was less than or equal to 20% in the bivariate analysis were included to explore factors associated with underweight children aged 6-59 months.

In this study, the prevalence of underweight was 32.9%. After multivariate analysis, child age (OR=7.82, 95% CI = [2.21-27.6]), child gender (OR=2.61, 95% CI = [1.31-5.23]), maternal education level (OR=0, 32, 95% CI = [0.15-0.65]), exclusive breastfeeding (OR=0.28, 95% CI = [0.13-0.60]), latrine type (OR=8.08, 95% CI = [1.06-61.38]), water source (OR=2.76, 95% CI = [1.33-5.74]), mothers' knowledge of a balanced diet (OR=0.23, 95% CI = [0.08-0.64]) and knowledge of the consequences of malnutrition (OR= 0.21, 95% CI = [0.07-0.61]) were identified as factors significantly associated with underweight children aged 6-59 months in the Kibuye health district.

Original Article Breastfeeding Practices in Morocco (1992-2025): Multicentric Analysis of National Surveys, Meta-Analysis, and Exploration of Key Indicators

2025-05-16T22:50:32+00:00

Introduction: Breastfeeding is a cornerstone of infant nutrition, playing a crucial role in neonatal health, growth, and maternal-infant bonding. Despite WHO recommendations advocating exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, breastfeeding practices in Morocco remain suboptimal, with disparities in both initiation and continuation. This study aims to analyze the epidemiology of breastfeeding in Morocco, assess maternal knowledge, and evaluate the effectiveness of national promotion programs while forecasting breastfeeding trends for 2025.

Materiel and Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted, synthesizing data from 1992 to 2025 across databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar. National surveys (ENPSF, PAPCHILD) and epidemiological studies were analyzed to determine the prevalence, trends, and determinants of breastfeeding. A linear regression model was applied to estimate the relationship between early breastfeeding initiation and exclusive breastfeeding at six months, with statistical significance assessed using Pearson correlation and p-value analysis. Projections for 2025 were made using predictive epidemiological modeling.

Results:

The early breastfeeding rate in Morocco remains inconsistent, with significant regional variations and socio-economic disparities.
Exclusive breastfeeding rates remain below WHO recommendations, with a projected stagnation at 40.6% by 2025.
The correlation between early and exclusive breastfeeding at six months is weak (r=0.36, p=0.759), indicating that additional determinants influence breastfeeding duration.
Despite national awareness efforts, maternal knowledge gaps persist, contributing to premature breastfeeding cessation and early introduction of complementary feeding.

Discussion: The findings highlight structural and behavioral barriers to sustained breastfeeding, including limited postpartum support, workplace constraints, and aggressive infant formula marketing. The current focus on early breastfeeding promotion may be insufficient to improve exclusive breastfeeding rates. Strengthening maternity leave policies, healthcare professional training, and postpartum follow-up strategies is essential to prevent stagnation in breastfeeding rates.

Conclusion: This study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive breastfeeding promotion policies in Morocco, extending beyond initiation efforts to focus on long-term adherence to exclusive breastfeeding. Strengthening healthcare interventions, workplace accommodations, and maternal education programs is essential to achieving WHO’s recommended breastfeeding targets and improving infant health outcomes.

Impact and Contribution: This study provides a robust assessment of breastfeeding practices in Morocco by combining epidemiological modeling, national survey data, and predictive analysis. The findings support public health strategies to increase breastfeeding rates, reduce disparities, and enhance maternal and infant nutrition.

Study on the Effect of Consumption of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages on Psychosocial Behavior of Children in Saudi Arabia

2025-05-16T22:50:30+00:00

Background and objectives: The goal of the study was to see how sugar-enhanced beverages affected children's psychosocial behavior. Expansions in the use of sugar-enhanced drinks (SSB) during youth have mirrored global patterns in the epidemic of experience growing up stoutness. Furthermore, the study aims to determine the rates at which Saudi children use SSBs and their relationship to mental effects, as well as the mental aspects that are most affected by SSB use.

Methodology: For this research, 400 guardians from Saudi Arabia were selected as samples, and the probability purposive sampling technique was used to collect samples. Questionnaires were designed and validated through the pilot survey. Three categories were made in the questionnaires to assess the sociodemographic characteristics, consumption patterns of sugar-sweetened beverages, and behavioral problems. Chi-square, t-test, and logistic regression were used to analyze the data statistically using SPSS 23 software.

Results: Results and outcomes of the research demonstrated that mental health issues and physical as well as psychosocial problems were the main effects of excessive use of sugar-sweetened beverages Causes. Restlessness, lack of concentration, loss of temper, lack of confidence, and feelings of sickness were found to be the most experienced symptoms.

Conclusion: The intake of sugar-sweetened beverages negatively impacts children's physical and mental health. It impacts increased heart issues, obesity, diabetes, and aggressive behavior.

Limitations: This is a cross-sectional study, and the causal relationship is unclear.

The Necessity of Systemic Ultrasound Examination for Neonate within One Week in Taiwan: Two Cases Reports

2025-05-16T22:50:29+00:00

Many congenital abdominal anomalies and tumors are asymptomatic and easily miss early detection. Ultrasound examinations, non-invasive and safe, play a crucial role in diagnosing congenital abnormalities. We advocate neonatal ultrasound screening programs encompassing multiple systems, aiding early disease diagnosis and prompt intervention. This article reported two cases that missed prenatal examination and found abnormalities through a ultrasound program within one week after birth.

Efficiency of Rearing the African Palm Weevil (Rhynchophorus phoenicis) in Different Substrates as Arsenal for Addressing Malnutrition in Children

2025-05-16T22:50:28+00:00

Background: Rhynchophorus phoenicis is arguably one of the most sought-after edible insects in the tropics. It is widely distributed in Africa and is a major pest of palm trees in Africa, Southern Asia, and South America. Globally, the population has been predicted to surpass 9 billion by 2050, leading to food insecurity.

Objective: This research investigated rearing the edible insect (Rhynchophorus phoenicis) in different substrates under laboratory conditions to address problems associated with the weevils' availability for solving malnutrition issues in children when consumed.

Methods: Ten (10) adult palm weevils were reared in different substrates (coconut husk, sugarcane, pawpaw, and a combination of all the substrates) under laboratory conditions with palm fiber as the control and arranged in triplicates to assess their emergence and survival. Data on larvae emergence, survival, and pupation were obtained within four (4) to eight (8) weeks post-emergence.

Results: The rearing experiments showed that larvae emergence and survival (184.08±19.7), pupation rate (53.25±7.0), and adult emergence (12.92±1.8) were highest in coconut husk and least in pawpaw substrate. There was also a significant difference between the larvae emergence and survival, pupation, and adult emergence in the various substrates compared to the control (p<0.05).

Implication: The study demonstrated the feasibility of mass-rearing African palm weevil (Rhynchophorus phoenicis) larvae, which, if incorporated into children's diets, will be immensely significant in solving nutritional deficiencies and problems associated with malnutrition.

Parental Knowledge Attitudes and Practice Towards Headaches Among Elementary School-Aged Children in Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia

2025-05-16T22:50:27+00:00

Aim: To evaluate parental knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding childhood headaches in Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia, and identify gaps that could inform targeted educational interventions.

Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was administered to 399 parents residing in Al-Baha. The survey assessed parental understanding, behavior, and perceptions concerning pediatric headaches. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 27.0, applying descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis, and Spearman’s correlation tests.

Results: Among the respondents, 52.4% were female (N = 209) and 47.6% male (N = 190), with a mean age of 42.56 years. Female participants exhibited significantly higher knowledge scores than their male counterparts. The most frequently reported headache triggers were sleep disturbances (79.4%), vision problems (61.7%), and psychological factors (52.1%), whereas malnutrition was identified by only 48.9% of respondents. Symptom monitoring practices varied: 46.1% of parents reported observing symptoms before seeking medical care, while 23.0% considered headaches an emergency. Notably, 57.4% sought professional consultation when symptoms persisted, yet 32.1% administered painkillers without medical advice. Knowledge scores were positively correlated with both attitude scores (r = 0.151, p = 0.002) and practice scores (r = 0.336, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: The findings indicate that parental understanding of childhood headaches is often limited, particularly concerning nutritional triggers and evidence-based management strategies. This underscores the urgent need for targeted educational initiatives to enhance awareness, promote appropriate health-seeking behavior, and reduce the risk of mismanagement.

Regional Determinants of Child Mortality in Nigeria: Evidence from Survival Analysis

2025-05-16T22:50:26+00:00

Objective: This study investigated regional determinants of child mortality in northern Nigeria, focusing on socio-economic, demographic, and environmental factors.

Methods: Data from the 2018 Nigerian Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) on 10,400 under-five children were analyzed. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and the Cox Proportional Hazards model assessed survival probabilities and risk factors. However, the proportional hazards (PH) assumption was violated (χ² = 1190.00, df = 13, p < 2e-16), indicating time-varying effects. Consequently, the Weibull model was used for a more precise estimation.

Results: Kaplan-Meier estimates revealed significant regional disparities in child survival (p < 0.0001), with North Central having the highest survival, North East intermediate, and North West the lowest. The log-rank test (χ² = 176.214, p < 0.001) confirmed these differences. The Weibull model identified male children as having a higher mortality riskcompared to female children, likely due to biological vulnerabilities and variations in healthcare. Larger households and shorter birth intervals increased mortality risk due to resource constraints. In contrast, improved sanitation and clean water access significantly reduced mortality. Higher maternal education, household wealth, and breastfeeding were strongly associated with better survival. Notably, not breastfed children had a 45%, 46%, and 49% higher mortality risk across regions. Birth intervals exceeding 35 months and maternal age at first birth between 29 and 36 years improved survival.

Conclusion: These findings emphasized the need for policy interventions, including family planning, improved sanitation, maternal education, and breastfeeding promotion, to reduce child mortality and regional disparities in Nigeria.