Cross-sectional and longitudinal analysis of nutritional status of school-children from Bumbire Island (United Republic of Tanzania)

Objective: To analyze the nutritional status of schoolchildren from Bumbire Island (Tanzania) from cross-sectional and longitudinal perspectives. Methods: During 2014 and 2015, we collected anthropometric measurements in a sample of 437 schoolchildren (226 males, 211 females; 5–16 years). A sub-sample of 126 children were measured in both surveys. Socio-demographic data have been taken and dietary habits investigated. The accuracy of age data was checked. Malnutrition prevalence was calculated according to the WHO references and the z-score criteria. Results: The prevalence of undernutrition was high (stunting: 30.7%; underweight: 12.9%; thinness: 4.5%), while overweight was rare (2.4%). The prevalence of stunting was higher in males and in older children. The one-year longitudinal analysis indicated that stunting prevalence increased. Conclusions: Undernutrition is affecting Bumbire Island children, likely due to micronutrient deficiencies. The effects of linear growth deficit continue to accumulate throughout childhood and adolescent years.