Biosocial components and prevalent childhood diseases in children under 5 years from the Bañado Sur of Asunción

Abstract

Introduction:

Prevalent childhood diseases in adverse conditions such as poverty can be serious or fatal. Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) addresses the social determinants of health. Objective: Know the prevalent diseases and environmental conditions of children under 5 years old from Bañado Sur applying IMCI.

Methodology:

Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study, non-probabilistic sampling by quotas in 4 neighborhoods of the Bañado Sur, through weekly visits to 23 households (2016-2017). The health condition was interpreted and classified according to IMCI (severe red, moderate yellow, good green). Participation was voluntary, considering ethical recommendations for research in vulnerable contexts. The selected sample is not representative of the entire population of children from the Bañado.

Results:

42 children under 5 years (26 girls, 16 boys). 71% classified red and yellow simultaneously (by background and/or findings). From 4 (<2 months), one classified red and yellow (bloody diarrhea); other, yellow (low weight, nutrition problems, infections, anemia); two, green. Of 38 children (> 2 months <5 years) 55% classified red and yellow; 29% yellow; 16%, green. Of the red, 54% registered severe respiratory conditions; 21%, malnutrition and anemia; 10%, diarrhea with severe dehydration. Developmental surveillance: 1 classified red (hearing loss, language delay); 5, yellow per alert (absence of age skills); 36, yellow for normal development with risk factors such as low schooling of mothers, violence, polluted environment, overcrowding, and poverty. None of them classified green in all its dimensions. Protective factors: stable caregiver, breastfeeding in the first years.

Conclusion:

The prevalent childhood diseases in children of the Bañado Sur acquire a serious and repetitive character; its socio-environmental conditions are negative. Comprehensive and cross-sector public policies are urgently needed, such as Primary Health Care. IMCI is particularly recommended in its community component.