Background: Developmental disorders, such as cerebral palsy and intellectual disabilities, are
common causes of childhood disability globally and can severely affect physical growth and
nutrition. Children with these disorders often face feeding difficulties, including poor oral-
motor coordination, swallowing issues, and inability to self-feed, which can lead to
undernutrition. These nutritional deficits may further impair growth, hinder development, and
increase the risk of long-term health complications. Understanding the nutritional status and
feeding problems in these children is essential for creating effective interventions to improve
their health outcomes.
Objective: To assess and compare the nutritional status and feeding problems of children withdevelopmental disorders and their typically developing peers, and to identify the associated
risk factors that affect nutrition in children with developmental disorders.
Study Design: Comparative cross-sectional study.
Methods: A comparative study was conducted among 250 children in the age group of 5-15
years. Demographic data along with anthropometric measurements were taken. Assessment of
nutritional status were made using metrics such as z-scores for weight-for-age, height-for-age,
and weight for height. Descriptive statistics (number and percentage) and analytical statistics
were included.
Results: Among children with developmental disorders, 68 (27.2%) were underweight, 114
(45.6%) had short stature, and 38 (15.2%) had wasting. Obesity was found in 32 (12.8%), more
prevalent in adolescent females. Feeding difficulties were reported in 117 (46.9%), with
common issues being poor chewing/swallowing 76 (65%), inability to self-feed 67 (57.3%),
and poor appetite 23 (20%). Undernutrition was observed in 47 (40.3%), and short stature in
83 (71.3%) of children with feeding difficulties. Statistically significant differences were found
between children with developmental disorders and typically developing peers, with a higher
prevalence of underweight (P = 0.000, 95% CI: 21.7–32.7), short stature (P = 0.001, 95% CI:
39.4–51.8), and obesity (P = 0.008, 95% CI: 8.6–17.0).
Conclusion: The children with developmental disorders were significantly undernourished as
compared to normal children of same age group. The heights and weights of the children were
significantly below standard as compared to normal children of same age group. Enhancing
their nutritional status may contribute to improved overall health and support the development
of greater functional independence.
Keywords: Anthropometry, Cerebral Palsy, Developmental Disabilities, Intellectual
disability, Nutritional status
Publication date: 01/07/2025
https://ijbpas.com/pdf/2025/July/MS_IJBPAS_2025_9273.pdf
Download PDF
https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2025/14.7.9273
