Prevalence of Stunting and Its Associated Factors Among Children Residing in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camps in Hargeisa, Somaliland: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background

Stunting, a consequence of prolonged malnutrition, remains a critical global health issue affecting 165 million children under the age of five, with 10.6 million associated deaths. Its stunting prevalence is particularly pronounced in developing nations, notably Sub-Saharan Africa. Chronic protein-energy malnutrition, identified as a major cause of morbidity and mortality in displaced settings, underscores the urgency of understanding its impact in such contexts.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of stunting among children aged 12–59 months and residing in IDP camps in Hargeisa, Somaliland.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Hargeisa from May 5 to July 30, 2022, utilizing systematic random sampling, online mobile surveys, and caregiver interviews with anthropometric measurements. The SPSS version 25 was utilized in handled data entry, processing and analysis. Multivariable logistic regression, with p < 0.05 significance, included variables from bivariate analysis (p < 0.2). Stunting assessment utilized WHO AnthroPlus software, categorizing HAZ scores < −2.0 SD.

Results

The prevalence of stunting among children living in IDP camps was found to be 21.1% [95% CI: 17.0–24.91%]. Vaccination status (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.09–0.38), deworming practice (aOR = 6.5, 95% CI: 2.91–14.52), place of delivery (aOR = 0.14, 95% CI: 0.07–0.30), measles experience in the last year (aOR = 0.12, 95% CI: 0.04–0.34), ANC visits (aOR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.14–0.81), and maternal insufficient extra food intake (aOR = 2.15, 95% CI: 1.11–4.15) were significantly associated with stunting.

Conclusion

The observed stunting prevalence in IDP camps (21.1%) was substantial, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Future efforts should aim to reduce stunting from the current rate to an estimated 5–10%, emphasizing comprehensive measures such as deworming, maternal nutrition, postnatal care improvement, robust immunization, and promoting healthcare facility deliveries.

Keywords:

• stunting
• IDP
• Somaliland

Abbreviations

ANC, Ante-Natal care; BMI, Body mass index; EPI, Extended Program for Immunization; HAZ= Height for Age Z score; HH, Household; IDP, Internally Displaced Persons; MoH, Ministry of Health; NRR, Non-Response Rate; PNC, post-Natal care; SLDHS, Somaliland Demographic and Health survey; SLSH, Somaliland Shillings (Somaliland Currency); SDG, Sustainable Development Goals; UNICEF, United Nation Child’s Fund; WHO, World Health Organization.

Data Sharing Statement

The datasets used during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

Acknowledgments

Our gratitude goes to Jimma University College of Health Sciences for permitting us to conduct this research and to all study respondents and data collectors for their time.

Author Contributions

All authors made a significant contribution to the work reported, whether that is in the conception, study design, execution, acquisition of data, analysis and interpretation, or in all these areas; took part in drafting, revising or critically reviewing the article; gave final approval of the version to be published; have agreed on the journal to which the article has been submitted; and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.

Disclosure

The authors declare that they have no potential competing interests.

Additional information

Funding

This study did not receive any funding.