294: Impact of Stunting and Wasting on Academic Performance in School-Aged Children in the Kronum Community in Kumasi, Ghana

Introduction

Optimal child development is closely connected to proper nutrition, which is crucial in physical growth and cognitive abilities. This study examined the prevalence of stunting and wasting and their impact on academic performance among school-aged children in the Kronum community in the Suame Municipality of the Ashanti region in Ghana.

Methods

A multistage stratified sampling technique was used to select 270 pupils from three primary schools in the Kronum community. Anthropometric data, including height and weight, were collected using standardized equipment and analyzed using WHO growth standards to determine Z-scores for height-for-age (HAZ) and weight-for-height (WHZ). A chi-square analysis assessed the relationship between nutritional status and performance.

Results

The findings from the experimental group indicated that 40% of the participants were stunted, 40% wasted and 20% were well-nourished. Among the well-nourished children, 5% were overweight and 5% obese. Academic performance was evaluated based on average scores in Mathematics, Science, and English. Well-nourished children achieved the highest overall average score (77.7%), followed by mildly wasted (67.7%) and mildly stunted (66.7%) groups. Severely stunted and wasted children had the lowest overall scores (57.7% and 58.7%, respectively). The study underscores the importance of nutritional interventions to enhance growth, development, and academic performance among children in low-income communities in Ghana.

Significance

This study investigates the impact of stunting and wasting on the academic performance of school-aged children in the Kronum community, Ghana. The findings highlight the significant relationship between proper nutrition, optimal growth, and improved academic outcomes, emphasizing the need for targeted nutritional interventions in low-income communities.

Authors: Akua A Okyere, Marina A Tandoh, Emmanuel A Amankwah