Influencia de la desnutrición infantil en el desarrollo de enfermedades respiratorias en el Centro de Salud Martha de Roldós en el periodo enero-julio 2024.

Abstract

Child malnutrition is a public health issue that weakens the immune system of children, making them more vulnerable to various infections, including respiratory diseases. This research aims to identify the influence of malnutrition on the development of respiratory illness. Objective: To assess the influence of malnutrition on the development of respiratory diseases in children at the Martha de Roldós Health Center during the period from January to July 2024. Methodology: This is a retrospective, observational, and analytical study based on data from 507 medical records of pediatric patients diagnosed with child malnutrition who developed a respiratory disease. Results: The highest prevalence was mild malnutrition with 316 cases (62.3%), followed by moderate with 129 (25.4%) and severe with 62 (12.2%). The most common diagnosis was bronchopneumonia with 198 cases (39.1%), followed by acute pharyngitis with 120 (23.7%) and the common cold with 66 (13.0%). Regarding the degree of malnutrition and respiratory disease severity, 47.47% (150 patients) of children with mild malnutrition showed severe forms of respiratory illness; in moderate malnutrition it was 50.39% (65 patients), and in severe malnutrition 51.97% (36 patients). Conclusion: The prevalence of respiratory diseases among malnourished children was 507 patients, with bronchopneumonia being the most frequent illness, followed by acute pharyngitis and the common cold. The main associated factors were housing conditions, tobacco exposure, seasonal climate, and socioeconomic difficulties.