Nutritional Status of Epileptic Children in Rawalpindi, Pakistan; A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: To assess the nutritional status of epileptic children treated at the Pediatric Clinic, to underline a relationship between food intake and disease prevalence.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to December 2021, involving 240 children aged 2-10 years diagnosed with epilepsy. Data were collected using a 24-hour diet recall method and a food frequency questionnaire. Demographic and clinical characteristics were measured using validated tools, and nutritional status was assessed using the CDC growth chart. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed using SPSS 22.

Results: Of the 240 children, 55% were under 5 years old, and 58% were male. The mean age was 6 years. Malnutrition prevalence was 58%, with 54% undernourished and 4% overnourished. Urban and rural residency was almost evenly split, and 57% of mothers were ?30 years old, with 64% having primary education. Developmental delays were present in 45% of children, and 54% experienced poor seizure control. Dietary habits showed that 57% ate three times a day, 52% did not consume milk, and 73% followed special diets. Daily sunlight exposure exceeded an hour for 79%, and 60% did not take multivitamins regularly. A significant association was found between family history of epilepsy and the prevalence of malnutrition (p < 0.005).

Conclusion: Malnutrition is prevalent among epileptic children in Rawalpindi, with poor dietary intake contributing to undernutrition and increased disease prevalence, particularly in rural areas. Socioeconomic factors, family history, and dietary habits significantly affect the nutritional status of these children. Interventions are needed to improve their health outcomes.