Analysis of malnutrition of preschool children from Zhag’yab County in Tibet

Objective To investigate physical development level of preschool children from Zhag’yab County in Tibet,aiming to provide reference for improving the nutritional status of children in this region. Methods In this cross-sectional study,the height and weight of children aged 3-6 years old from Zhag’yab County in Tibet were measured. The nutritional status was evaluated according to the WHO child growth standards. Results The overall prevalence rates of malnutrition, stunting, underweight and wasting were 22.6%, 13.0%, 10.9% and 10.0%, respectively. The differences between urban and rural areas were statistically significant （all P <0.05）. No statistical significance was observed among different age groups （all P > 0.05）. Conclusion In Zhag’yab County, the physical development level of preschool children is poor and the malnutrition rate is relatively high. Significant difference can be noted between urban and rural areas. Extensive attention should be paid to scientific feeding and children health,especially in rural area.