The impact of crisis and COVID 19 on Syrian children growth, health awareness and nutritional practices. A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Despite the great steadfastness that Syria has achieved in the face of more than a decade of stifling crisis followed by the global COVID-19 pandemic, the heavy impacts of these long rough years are certain and crucial on the health and nutrition levels, specially on vulnerable groups like women and children. Moreover, the lack of research and data on health and nutritional status of children within Syria makes it very difficult to draw conclusions and act effectively.the purpose of the current study was to evaluate growth development and give an insight about the public health awareness and nutritional practices among Syrian primary schools children.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among private and public primary schools students aged 6 to 9 years old in Homs governorate in January to April 2021, anthropometric measures were taken and data about nutritional practices and health awareness were assessment by conducting two surveys answered by parents and students.Results: We defined the prevalence of obesity (5.3%, 8.2%), severely wasted (3.9%, 5.2%) and stunting (15.7%, 7.8%) for public and private schools respectively with a significant higher stunting prevalence among public schools student. Differences in nutritional practices and health awareness were recorded between public and private schools students under socioeconomic impact.Conclusions: This study contributes to evaluate the burden of crisis and COVID-19 pandemic on Syrian children growth and health practices in Syria. Improving health awareness and nutritional support among Syrian families to help children meet their growth needs is recommended. Moreover, additional research should be conducted to evaluate micro-nutrients deficiencies and provide appropriate medical support effectively.