1
|
Rahman S, Wallberg L, Rahman A, Ekström EC, Kippler M, Hamadani JD, Rahman SM. Association between maternal haemoglobin status during pregnancy and children's mental and psychomotor development at 18 months of age: Evidence from rural Bangladesh. Glob Health Action 2024; 17:2390269. [PMID: 39193768 PMCID: PMC11360636 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2024.2390269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anaemia is commonly caused by iron deficiency and screened by haemoglobin (Hb) concentration in blood. There is a scarcity of longitudinal data on the relationship between maternal Hb levels during pregnancy and neurodevelopment in children. OBJECTIVE To measure the relationship of maternal Hb concentrations during pregnancy on early child development. METHODS This prospective cohort study included 1,720 mother-child dyads in rural Bangladesh. Maternal Hb concentrations were measured at 14 and 30 weeks of gestation. The child's Mental Developmental Index (MDI) and Psychomotor Developmental Index (PDI) at 18 months of age were measured using Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (BSID-II). Data on socio-demographic characteristics, anthropometrics, mothers' IQ and children's home stimulation were also collected. Bivariate and multivariable-adjusted linear regression analyses were used to explore associations of maternal Hb with child development. RESULTS Mean Hb concentrations at 14 and 30 weeks of gestation were 116.6 g/L (±12.7) and 114.7 g/L (±12.7), respectively. Mean MDI and PDI scores among 18-month-old children were 78.9 (±12.4) and 93.8 (±13.7), respectively. Maternal 14-week Hb concentration was correlated with PDI (r = 0.06; p < 0.05) and 30-week Hb concentrations was correlated with MDI (r = 0.05; p < 0.05). Multivariable adjusted linear regression analysis showed that an increase in 14-week Hb concentrations increased the PDI scores among boys (β = 0.09; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.16). Hb concentrations at 30 weeks of gestation were not associated with MDI or PDI scores. CONCLUSION Higher maternal Hb concentrations at 14 weeks of gestation were associated with higher PDI among 18-month-old boys in Bangladesh.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sayedur Rahman
- Global Health and Migration Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lina Wallberg
- Global Health and Migration Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anisur Rahman
- Maternal and Child Health Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Eva-Charlotte Ekström
- Global Health and Migration Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Maria Kippler
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jena D Hamadani
- Maternal and Child Health Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Syed Moshfiqur Rahman
- Global Health and Migration Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mbabazi J, Pesu H, Mutumba R, McCray G, Ritz C, Filteau S, Briend A, Mupere E, Grenov B, Friis H, Olsen MF. Predictors of change in early child development among children with stunting: Secondary analysis of a randomized trial in Uganda. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0003456. [PMID: 39146335 PMCID: PMC11326642 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Millions of children under 5 years in low- and middle-income countries fail to attain their development potential with accruing short- and long-term consequences. Low length/height for age (stunting) is known to be a key factor, but there is little data on how child characteristics are linked with developmental changes among children with stunting. We assessed the socioeconomic, household, anthropometric, and clinical predictors of change in early child development (ECD) among 1-5-year-old children with stunting. This was a prospective cohort study nested in a randomized trial testing effects of lipid-based nutrient supplementation among children with stunting in Uganda. Development was assessed using the Malawi Development Assessment Tool (MDAT). Multiple linear regression analysis was used to assess for predictors of change. We included 750 children with mean ±SD age of 30.2 ±11.7 months 45% of whom were female. After 12 weeks, total MDAT z-score increased by 0.40 (95%CI: 0.32; 0.48). Moderate vs severe stunting, higher fat-free mass, negative malaria test and no inflammation (serum α-1-acid glycoprotein <1 g/l) at baseline predicted greater increase in ECD scores. Older age and fat mass gain predicted a lesser increase in ECD. Our findings reinforce the link between stunting and development with more severely stunted children having a lesser increase in ECD scores over time. Younger age, freedom from malaria and inflammation, and higher fat-free mass at baseline, as well as less gain of fat mass during follow-up predicted a higher increase in developmental scores in this study. Thus, supporting fat-free mass accretion, focusing on younger children, and infection prevention may improve development among children with stunting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Mbabazi
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Hannah Pesu
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rolland Mutumba
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Gareth McCray
- School of Medicine, Keele University, Keele, Staffordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Christian Ritz
- The National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Suzanne Filteau
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - André Briend
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere Center for Child, Adolescent and Maternal Health Research, Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Ezekiel Mupere
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Benedikte Grenov
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henrik Friis
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mette F Olsen
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Waldrop S, Chowdhury D, Westcott JE, Biasini F, Garcés A, Figueroa L, Tshefu A, Lokangaka A, Bauserman M, Saleem S, Ali SA, Goldenberg RL, Goudar SS, Dhaded SM, Derman RJ, Kemp JF, Koso-Thomas M, Das A, Hambidge M, Krebs NF. Anthropometric and sociodemographic variables, but not preconception or prenatal maternal nutrition supplementation, predict neurodevelopment in offspring of the 'Women First' trial. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2024:e13703. [PMID: 39044360 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Multiple factors influence infant and child neurodevelopment in low resource settings. In offspring of participants in the preconception maternal nutrition trial, Women First (WF), we examined the impact of providing a preconception (Arm 1) or prenatal (Arm 2) nutrient supplement (compared to controls, Arm 3) on neurodevelopmental outcomes at 24 months; predictors of neurodevelopment scores; and associations of infant anthropometrics with neurodevelopmental scores. Follow-up visits for anthropometry were conducted at 6-, 12-, 18- and 24-month of age. At 24-months, in a randomized subset, the Bayley Scales of Infant Development, 3rd edition (BSID-III), including cognitive, motor and social-emotional subscales, and the Family Care Indicators (FCI) questionnaire, assessing family and home environment, were completed. Multiple covariates (intervention arm, site, maternal sociodemographic characteristics, FCI subscales, birthweight and 6-24 months' change in anthropometry z-scores, (e.g., ΔLAZ6-2 4) were evaluated by linear regression to predict BSID-III outcomes and to assess associations of anthropometric changes with BSID-III scores. The analysis consisted of 1386 infants (n = 441, 486, 459 for Arms 1, 2 and 3, respectively). None of the domain-specific BSID-III subscale scores differed by maternal intervention arm. Four covariates significantly predicted (p ≤ 0.01) all 3 BSID-III subscales: secondary maternal education, ΔLAZ6 - 24, birthweight >2500 g, and FCI play materials. Linear growth was associated with all domains of neurodevelopment. The results underscore the multi-dimensional aspects of child development represented by the nurturing care framework, including prenatal maternal nutrition, post-natal growth, maternal education for responsive caregiving and opportunities for early learning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Waldrop
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Nutrition, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | | | - Jamie E Westcott
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Nutrition, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Fred Biasini
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Ana Garcés
- Instituto de Nutrición de Centro América y Panamá (INCAP), Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Lester Figueroa
- Instituto de Nutrición de Centro América y Panamá (INCAP), Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Antoinette Tshefu
- Kinshasa School of Public Health (KSPH), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
| | - Adrien Lokangaka
- Kinshasa School of Public Health (KSPH), Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
| | - Melissa Bauserman
- Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sarah Saleem
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sumera A Ali
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Robert L Goldenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, New York State, USA
| | - Shivaprasad S Goudar
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research (Deemed-to-be-University), Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College (JNMC), Belagavi, India
| | - Sangappa M Dhaded
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research (Deemed-to-be-University), Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College (JNMC), Belagavi, India
| | - Richard J Derman
- Office of Global Affairs, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jennifer F Kemp
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Nutrition, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Marion Koso-Thomas
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Abhik Das
- RTI International, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michael Hambidge
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Nutrition, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Nancy F Krebs
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Nutrition, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bliznashka L, Nwabuikwu O, Ahun M, Becker K, Nnensa T, Roschnik N, Kachinjika M, Mvula P, Munthali A, Ndolo V, Katundu M, Maleta K, Quisumbing A, Gladstone M, Gelli A. Understanding modifiable caregiver factors contributing to child development among young children in rural Malawi. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2024:e13698. [PMID: 38960410 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
This study examined modifiable caregiver factors influencing child development in Malawi using baseline data from 1,021 mothers and their children <2 years of age participating in a cluster-randomized controlled trial implemented in rural Malawi (2022-2025). We fit an evidence-based theoretical model using structural equation modelling examining four caregiver factors: (1) diet diversity (sum of food groups consumed in the past 24 h), (2) empowerment (assessed using the project-level Women's Empowerment in Agriculture Index), (3) mental health (assessed using the Self-Reported Questionnaire, SRQ-20), and (4) stimulation (number of stimulation activities the mother engaged in the past 3 days). Child development was assessed using the Malawi Development Assessment Tool (norm-referenced aggregate Z-score). The model controlled for child, caregiver, and household socioeconomic characteristics. Results showed that caregiver dietary diversity was directly associated with higher child development scores (standardized coefficient 0.091 [95% CI 0.027, 0.153]) and lower SRQ-20 scores -0.058 (-0.111, -0.006). Empowerment was directly associated with higher child development scores (0.071 [0.007, 0.133]), higher stimulation score (0.074 [0.013, 0.140]), higher dietary diversity (0.085 [0.016, 0.145]), and lower SRQ-20 scores (-0.068 [-0.137, -0.002]). Further, higher empowerment was indirectly associated with improved child development through enhancement of caregiver dietary diversity, with an indirect effect of 0.008 (0.002, 0.018). These findings highlight the important role that caregiver diet and empowerment play in directly influencing child development and other aspects of caregiver well-being. Interventions aimed at enhancing child development should consider these factors as potential targets to improve outcomes for children and caregivers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lilia Bliznashka
- International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Global Academy of Agriculture and Food Systems, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Odiche Nwabuikwu
- International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Marilyn Ahun
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Karoline Becker
- Department of International Development, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Theresa Nnensa
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | | | | | | | - Victoria Ndolo
- Department of Human Ecology, University of Malawi, Zomba, Malawi
| | - Mangani Katundu
- Department of Human Ecology, University of Malawi, Zomba, Malawi
| | - Kenneth Maleta
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Agnes Quisumbing
- International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Melissa Gladstone
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Aulo Gelli
- International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Tran LM, Nguyen PH, Young MF, Martorell R, Ramakrishnan U. The relationships between optimal infant feeding practices and child development and attained height at age 2 years and 6-7 years. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2024; 20:e13631. [PMID: 38450914 PMCID: PMC11168365 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Limited evidence exists on the long-term effects of early feeding practices on child growth and development. We examined the relationships between infant feeding practices and child height and development at ages 2 and 6-7 years. We studied 885 mother-child dyads from a randomized controlled trial of preconception supplementation in Vietnam. Early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF), exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), breastfeeding (BF) duration and minimum dietary diversity (MDD) were assessed using World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Child development was assessed by the Bayley Scales of Infant Development-III at 2 years and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children® - IV at 6-7 years. Child height-for-age z-score (HAZ) was calculated from child height and age. Multivariable regression and structural equation models were used in analyses that controlled for confounding. EIBF and EBF at 6 months occurred in 52% and 62% of children, respectively. Mean breastfeeding duration was 18 months and 83% achieved MDD at 1 year. EIBF was associated with motor (β = 0.13, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.00, 0.28) and cognitive development at 2 years (β = 0.12, 95% CI: -0.01, 0.26), which in turn were positively associated with cognitive development at 6-7 years. EBF was directly associated with development at 6-7 years (β = 0.21, 95% CI:0.08, 0.34) whereas motor and cognitive development at 2 years explained 41%-75% of the relationship between EIBF and development at 6-7 years. HAZ at 2 years also mediated 70% of the association between MDD at 1 year and HAZ at 6-7 years. BF duration was not associated with child development and HAZ. Early infant feeding practices, especially EIBF and EBF, have important long-term implications for optimizing child linear growth and cognition as they begin school.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lan Mai Tran
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public HealthEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
- Doctoral Program in Nutrition and Health Sciences, Laney Graduate SchoolEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Phuong H. Nguyen
- Nutrition, Diets, and Health Unit, International Food Policy Research InstituteWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
- Thai Nguyen University of Pharmacy and MedicineThai NguyenVietnam
| | - Melissa F. Young
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public HealthEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
- Doctoral Program in Nutrition and Health Sciences, Laney Graduate SchoolEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Reynaldo Martorell
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public HealthEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
- Doctoral Program in Nutrition and Health Sciences, Laney Graduate SchoolEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Usha Ramakrishnan
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public HealthEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
- Doctoral Program in Nutrition and Health Sciences, Laney Graduate SchoolEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mbabazi J, Pesu H, Mutumba R, Bromley K, Ritz C, Filteau S, Briend A, Mupere E, Grenov B, Friis H, Olsen MF. Correlates of early child development among children with stunting: A cross-sectional study in Uganda. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2024; 20:e13619. [PMID: 38291803 PMCID: PMC10981482 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Many children in low- and middle-income countries are not attaining their developmental potential. Stunting is associated with poor child development, but it is not known which correlates of stunting are impairing child development. We explored potential socioeconomic, nutritional, clinical, and household correlates of early child development among 12-59-month-old children with stunting in a cross-sectional study in Uganda. Development was assessed using the Malawi Development Assessment Tool (MDAT) across four domains of gross and fine motor, language, and social skills. Linear regression analysis was used to assess correlates of development in the four domains and total MDAT score. Of 750 children included, the median [interquartile range] age was 30 [23-41] months, 55% of the children resided in rural settings with 21% from female-headed households and 47% of mothers had no schooling. The mean ± standard deviation height-for-age z-score (HAZ) was -3.02 ± 0.74, 40% of the children had a positive malaria test and 65% were anaemic (haemoglobin < 110 g/L). One-third had children's books at home, majority (96%) used household objects to play with and most of them (70%) used toys as pretence items like those to mimic cooking. After age, sex, and site adjustments, HAZ (0.24, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.14-0.33) and head circumference (0.07, 95% CI: 0.02-0.12) were positive correlates of total MDAT score, whereas weight-for-height z-score (WHZ) was not. Current breastfeeding was associated with 0.41 (95% CI: 0.17-0.65) lower total MDAT score. Children from households with a single income earner had 0.22 (95% CI: 0.06-0.37) lower total MDAT score. Furthermore, severe food insecurity, inflammation and positive malaria test were associated with lower scores for motor development. All family care indicator subscales (FCIs) positively correlated with the total MDAT score and this association was independent of household's socioeconomic status. In conclusion, stunting degree, head circumference, number of household income earners and stimulation by improved FCIs correlate with early child development among stunted children. The negative association with prolonged breastfeeding is likely due to reverse causality. Identified correlates may inform initiatives to support children with stunting attain their development potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Mbabazi
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise & SportsUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
- Department of Paediatrics and Child HealthMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | - Hannah Pesu
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise & SportsUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Rolland Mutumba
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise & SportsUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
- Department of Paediatrics and Child HealthMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | | | - Christian Ritz
- The National Institute of Public HealthSouthern University of DenmarkCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Suzanne Filteau
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population HealthLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - André Briend
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise & SportsUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
- Tampere Center for Child Health ResearchUniversity of TampereTampereFinland
| | - Ezekiel Mupere
- Department of Paediatrics and Child HealthMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | - Benedikte Grenov
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise & SportsUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Henrik Friis
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise & SportsUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Mette F. Olsen
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise & SportsUniversity of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
- Department of Infectious DiseasesRigshospitaletCopenhagenDenmark
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Katus L, Crespo-Llado MM, Milosavljevic B, Saidykhan M, Njie O, Fadera T, McCann S, Acolatse L, Perapoch Amadó M, Rozhko M, Moore SE, Elwell CE, Lloyd-Fox S. It takes a village: Caregiver diversity and language contingency in the UK and rural Gambia. Infant Behav Dev 2024; 74:101913. [PMID: 38056188 DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2023.101913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is substantial diversity within and between contexts globally in caregiving practices and family composition, which may have implications for the early interaction's infants engage in. We draw on data from the Brain Imaging for Global Health (BRIGHT, www.globalfnirs.org/the-bright-project) project, which longitudinally examined infants in the UK and in rural Gambia, West Africa. In The Gambia, households are commonly characterized by multigenerational, frequently polygamous family structures, which, in part, is reflected in the diversity of caregivers a child spends time with. In this paper, we aim to 1) evaluate and validate the Language Environment Analysis (LENA) for use in the Mandinka speaking families in The Gambia, 2) examine the nature (i.e., prevalence of turn taking) and amount (i.e., adult and child vocalizations) of conversation that infants are exposed to from 12 to 24 months of age and 3) investigate the link between caregiver diversity and child language outcomes, examining the mediating role of contingent turn taking. METHOD We obtained naturalistic seven-hour-long LENA recordings at 12, 18 and 24 months of age from a cohort of N = 204 infants from Mandinka speaking households in The Gambia and N = 61 infants in the UK. We examined developmental changes and site differences in LENA counts of adult word counts (AWC), contingent turn taking (CTT) and child vocalizations (CVC). In the larger and more heterogenous Gambian sample, we also investigated caregiver predictors of turn taking frequency. We hereby examined the number of caregivers present over the recording day and the consistency of caregivers across two subsequent days per age point. We controlled for children's cognitive development via the Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL). RESULTS Our LENA validation showed high internal consistency between the human coders and automated LENA outputs (Cronbach's alpha's all >.8). All LENA counts were higher in the UK compared to the Gambian cohort. In The Gambia, controlling for overall neurodevelopment via the MSEL, CTT at 12 and 18 months predicted CVC at 18 and 24 months. Caregiver consistency was associated with CTT counts at 18 and 24 months. The number of caregivers and CTT counts showed an inverted u-shape relationship at 18 and 24 months, with an intermediate number of caregivers being associated with the highest CTT frequencies. Mediation analyses showed a partial mediation by number of caregivers and CTT and 24-month CVC. DISCUSSION The LENA provided reliable estimates for the Mandinka language in the home recording context. We showed that turn taking is associated with subsequent child vocalizations and explored contextual caregiving factors contributing to turn taking in the Gambian cohort.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Katus
- Institute for Lifecourse Development, School of Human Sciences, University of Greenwich, UK; Centre for Family Research, University of Cambridge, UK.
| | | | - Bosiljka Milosavljevic
- Department of Biological and Experimental Psychology, Queen Mary University of London, UK
| | - Mariama Saidykhan
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK
| | - Omar Njie
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK
| | - Tijan Fadera
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK
| | - Samantha McCann
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK; Department of Women and Children's Health, Kings College London, UK
| | - Lena Acolatse
- Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, UK
| | | | - Maria Rozhko
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Sophie E Moore
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK; Department of Women and Children's Health, Kings College London, UK
| | - Clare E Elwell
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Benedict RK, Pullum TW, Riese S, Milner E. Is child anemia associated with early childhood development? A cross-sectional analysis of nine Demographic and Health Surveys. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298967. [PMID: 38416752 PMCID: PMC10901303 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Anemia is a significant public health problem in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), with young children being especially vulnerable. Iron deficiency is a leading cause of anemia and prior studies have shown associations between low iron status/iron deficiency anemia and poor child development outcomes. In LMICs, 43% of children under the age of five years are at risk of not meeting their developmental potential. However, few studies have examined associations between anemia status and early childhood development (ECD) in large population-based surveys. We examined the associations between severe or moderate anemia and ECD domains (literacy-numeracy, physical, social-emotional, and learning) and an overall ECD index among children age 36-59 months. Nine Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) from phase VII of The DHS Program (DHS-7) that included the ECD module and hemoglobin testing in children under age five years were used. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were run for each of the five outcomes. Multivariate models controlled for early learning/interaction variables, child, maternal, and paternal characteristics, and socio-economic and household characteristics. Results showed almost no significant associations between anemia and ECD domains or the overall ECD index except for social-emotional development in Benin (AOR = 1.00 p < 0.05) and physical development in Maldives (AORs = 0.97 p < 0.05). Attendance at an early childhood education program was also significantly associated with the outcomes in many of the countries. Our findings reinforce the importance of the Nurturing Care Framework which describes a multi-sectoral approach to promote ECD in LMICs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rukundo K. Benedict
- The Demographic and Health Surveys Program, ICF, Rockville, MD, United States of America
| | - Thomas W. Pullum
- The Demographic and Health Surveys Program, ICF, Rockville, MD, United States of America
| | - Sara Riese
- The Demographic and Health Surveys Program, ICF, Rockville, MD, United States of America
| | - Erin Milner
- Public Health Institute/ USAID Sustaining Technical and Analytical Resources, Washington, DC, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Upadhyay RP, Pathak BG, Raut SV, Kumar D, Singh D, Sudfeld CR, Strand TA, Taneja S, Bhandari N. Linear growth beyond 24 months and child neurodevelopment in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Pediatr 2024; 24:101. [PMID: 38331737 PMCID: PMC10851505 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-023-04521-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM To synthesize available evidence on the association between change in linear growth (height for age z score, HAZ) beyond the first two years of life with later child neurodevelopment outcomes in Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). METHODS We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE for cohort studies on the association between change in HAZ after age two and neurodevelopment outcomes in middle or late childhood. Data extraction was done independently by two reviewers. RESULTS A total of 21 studies, that included 64,562 children from 13 LMICs were identified. Each unit increase in change in HAZ above two years is associated with a + 0.01 increase (N = 8 studies, 27,393 children) in the cognitive scores at 3.5 to 12 years of age and a + 0.05-standard deviation (SD) increase (95% CI 0.02 to 0.08, N = 3 studies, 17,830 children) in the language score at 5 to 15 years of age. No significant association of change in HAZ with motor (standardized mean difference (SMD) 0.04; 95% CI: -0.10, 0.18, N = 1 study, 966 children) or socio-emotional scores (SMD 0.00; 95% CI: -0.02, 0.01, N = 4 studies, 14,616 participants) was observed. CONCLUSION Changes in HAZ after the first two years of life appear to have a small or no association with child neurodevelopment outcomes in LMICs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Sunita Taneja
- Society for Applied Studies, 45 Kalu Sarai, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Nita Bhandari
- Society for Applied Studies, 45 Kalu Sarai, New Delhi, 110016, India
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hossain SJ, Hamadani JD, Tofail F, Fisher J, Rahman MA, Rahman SM. Factors associated with children's cognitive, language, and motor development in deprived urban settings in Bangladesh. Child Care Health Dev 2024; 50:e13225. [PMID: 38265136 DOI: 10.1111/cch.13225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children's development is multifactorial. Although there have been several studies exploring the association of children's development with maternal, child, and environmental factors, we are unaware of any study that assessed those factors in children whose mothers were enrolled in a social safety net programme in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to identify the factors associated with disadvantaged children's cognitive, language, and motor development at age 6-16 months in deprived settings of urban Bangladesh and to identify relative importance of these factors of children's development. We also explored if there were any gender differences in child development. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted in a deprived setting of urban Bangladesh. Bayley III was used for assessing children's cognitive, language, and motor development. Multivariable linear regression model was used to find the factors associated with children's development, and dominance analysis was used to explore the relative importance of the factors. RESULTS Out of the total 599 mother-child dyads, 303 (50.58%) were girls. The factors associated with children's development were length-for-age Z-score (cognitive: B = 1.21 [95% CI = 0.31, 2.11], P = 0.008; language: 1.67 [0.79, 2.55] P < 0.001; motor: 2.15 [1.01, 3.29] P < 0.001) and home environment (cognitive: 0.58 [0.27, 0.89] P < 0.001; language: 0.59 [0.27, 0.92], P < 0.001; motor: 0.44 [0.09, 0.79] P = 0.013). Girls had higher cognitive (1.90 [0.17, 3.6], P = 0.031) and language (2.53 [0.55, 4.51], P = 0.013) development compared with boys. Families with a higher number of under five children within the households had lower language (-1.57 [-2.78, -0.36], P = 0.011) development. Violence against the mother and the families' food security status were not associated with the children's development. Children's length-for-age Z-score (27%) and home stimulation environment (23%) were the most important factors of cognitive development. CONCLUSION Children's nutritional status and home environment are important factors for disadvantaged children's development in deprived urban settings of Bangladesh. Both early child development-focussed parenting and nutrition interventions should be considered when designing child development programmes in urban settings in low- and middle-income countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheikh Jamal Hossain
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Mohakhali, Bangladesh
| | | | - Fahmida Tofail
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Mohakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Jane Fisher
- Global and Women's Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Md Anisur Rahman
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Mohakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Syed Moshfiqur Rahman
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Bangladesh (icddr,b), Mohakhali, Bangladesh
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Perrins Gendron MMC, Van Niekerk L, Cloete L. The use and value of play: Perspectives from the continent of Africa - a scoping review. Scand J Occup Ther 2023; 30:1394-1414. [PMID: 35293835 DOI: 10.1080/11038128.2022.2043433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Published play knowledge predominantly originates outside Africa. This review was undertaken to summarize sources on play originating from the continent of Africa. OBJECTIVE To locate and summarize sources on the use and value of play in human development and learning from the African continent. MATERIAL AND METHOD Following the PRISMA Extension - Scoping Reviews guidelines, the initial search yielded 17,004 sources. Title and abstract screening identified 263 sources which were evaluated for eligibility namely; sources originating from the African continent, in any language, focussing on play as occupation. RESULTS A total of 127 sources were included; 76 qualitative, 28 quantitative and 23 mixed design sources; 100 from Southern Africa. Nine themes emerged: Who plays, why, where and how individuals play, intentional use of play, play and adult-related work skills, what is used in play, time/duration of play and barriers to play. CONCLUSIONS Play was used effectively in human development and learning. Withholding play as a form of discipline, emphasized how adults and children valued play. Adults still loved playing. Safety concerns contributed to the reasons play occurred indoors more than outdoors, despite outdoor play being preferred. SIGNIFICANCE The review provides a reference for play as an occupation which may promote learning and development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lana Van Niekerk
- Division of Occupational Therapy; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape-Town, South Africa
| | - Lizahn Cloete
- Division of Occupational Therapy; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape-Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
SUMIATI TATI, SABARINAH, KUSUMAYATI AGUSTIN. Nurturing care among adolescent mothers. J Public Health Afr 2023; 14:2606. [PMID: 37942061 PMCID: PMC10628793 DOI: 10.4081/jphia.2023.2606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Many studies show the impact of adolescent mothers on child development. To prevent the impact of adolescent pregnancy, nurturing care is needed to support optimal children's development. This study aims to identify comprehensive nurturing care among adolescent mothers. This study used secondary data in the integration of the 2018 National Socioeconomic Survey and Basic Health Survey. To measure nurturing care, 5 components were used: health, adequate nutrition, security and safety, responsive caregiving, and opportunities for early learning with latent class analysis. The results of the analysis showed that 62% of adolescent mothers provided uncompleted nurturing care. About 21% of adolescent mothers need assistance in improving nurturing care related to adequate nutrition and learning opportunities, and 17% need assistance to improve health, nutrition, responsive caregiving, and opportunities for early learning. Adolescent mothers are in need of comprehensive nurturing care for their children. Practice is needed in order to enhance nurturing care initiatives, particularly for teenage mothers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- TATI SUMIATI
- Public Health Department, Faculty of Health Science, Muhammadiyah Maluku Utara University
| | - SABARINAH
- Faculty of Health Science, University of Indonesia, Indonesia
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Olson D, Lamb MM, Connery AK, Colbert AM, Calvimontes M, Bauer D, Paniagua-Avila MA, Martínez MA, Arroyave P, Hernandez S, Colborn KL, Roell Y, Waggoner JJ, Natrajan MS, Anderson EJ, Bolaños GA, El Sahly HM, Munoz FM, Asturias EJ. Cumulative Febrile, Respiratory, and Gastrointestinal Illness Among Infants in Rural Guatemala and Association With Neurodevelopmental and Growth Outcomes. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2023; 42:739-744. [PMID: 37343218 PMCID: PMC10527407 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0000000000004006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infectious disease exposures in early life are increasingly recognized as a risk factor for poor subsequent growth and neurodevelopment. We aimed to evaluate the association between cumulative illness with neurodevelopment and growth outcomes in a birth cohort of Guatemalan infants. METHODS From June 2017 to July 2018, infants 0-3 months of age living in a resource-limited region of rural southwest Guatemala were enrolled and underwent weekly at-home surveillance for caregiver-reported cough, fever, and vomiting/diarrhea. They also underwent anthropometric assessments and neurodevelopmental testing with the Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL) at enrollment, 6 months, and 1 year. RESULTS Of 499 enrolled infants, 430 (86.2%) completed all study procedures and were included in the analysis. At 12-15 months of age, 140 (32.6%) infants had stunting (length-for-age Z [LAZ] score < -2 SD) and 72 (16.7%) had microcephaly (occipital-frontal circumference [OFC] < -2 SD). In multivariable analysis, greater cumulative instances of reported cough illness (beta = -0.08/illness-week, P = 0.06) and febrile illness (beta = -0.36/illness-week, P < 0.001) were marginally or significantly associated with lower MSEL Early Learning Composite (ELC) Score at 12-15 months, respectively; there was no association with any illness (cough, fever, and/or vomiting/diarrhea; P = 0.27) or with cumulative instances of diarrheal/vomiting illness alone ( P = 0.66). No association was shown between cumulative instances of illness and stunting or microcephaly at 12-15 months. CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight the negative cumulative consequences of frequent febrile and respiratory illness on neurodevelopment during infancy. Future studies should explore pathogen-specific illnesses, host response associated with these syndromic illnesses, and their association with neurodevelopment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Olson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 13123 E. 16th Ave., Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Center for Global Health, Colorado School of Public Health, 13199 East Montview Blvd, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Children’s Hospital Colorado, 13123 E. 16th Ave., Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, 13001 E 17th Pl, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Molly M. Lamb
- Center for Global Health, Colorado School of Public Health, 13199 East Montview Blvd, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, 13001 E 17th Pl, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Amy K. Connery
- Children’s Hospital Colorado, 13123 E. 16th Ave., Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12631 E 17th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Alison M. Colbert
- Children’s Hospital Colorado, 13123 E. 16th Ave., Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12631 E 17th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Mirella Calvimontes
- Center for Human Development, Fundacion para la Salud Integral de los Guatemaltecos, Retalhuleu, Guatemala
| | - Desiree Bauer
- Center for Human Development, Fundacion para la Salud Integral de los Guatemaltecos, Retalhuleu, Guatemala
| | - M. Alejandra Paniagua-Avila
- Center for Human Development, Fundacion para la Salud Integral de los Guatemaltecos, Retalhuleu, Guatemala
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168th St. New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - María Alejandra Martínez
- Center for Human Development, Fundacion para la Salud Integral de los Guatemaltecos, Retalhuleu, Guatemala
| | - Paola Arroyave
- Center for Human Development, Fundacion para la Salud Integral de los Guatemaltecos, Retalhuleu, Guatemala
| | - Sara Hernandez
- Center for Human Development, Fundacion para la Salud Integral de los Guatemaltecos, Retalhuleu, Guatemala
| | - Kathryn L. Colborn
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12631 E 17th Ave #6117, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Yannik Roell
- Center for Global Health, Colorado School of Public Health, 13199 East Montview Blvd, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Jesse J. Waggoner
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, 1364 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Muktha S. Natrajan
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, 1364 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Evan J. Anderson
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, 1364 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Guillermo A. Bolaños
- Center for Human Development, Fundacion para la Salud Integral de los Guatemaltecos, Retalhuleu, Guatemala
| | | | - Flor M. Munoz
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Edwin J. Asturias
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 13123 E. 16th Ave., Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Center for Global Health, Colorado School of Public Health, 13199 East Montview Blvd, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Children’s Hospital Colorado, 13123 E. 16th Ave., Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, 13001 E 17th Pl, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Piper JD, Mazhanga C, Mwapaura M, Mapako G, Mapurisa I, Mashedze T, Munyama E, Kuona M, Mashiri T, Sibanda K, Matemavi D, Tichagwa M, Nyoni S, Saidi A, Mangwende M, Chidhanguro D, Mpofu E, Tome J, Mutasa B, Chasekwa B, Smuk M, Smith LE, Njovo H, Nyachowe C, Muchekeza M, Mutasa K, Sauramba V, Langhaug LF, Tavengwa NV, Gladstone MJ, Wells JC, Allen E, Humphrey JH, Ntozini R, Prendergast AJ. The Sanitation Hygiene Infant Nutrition Efficacy (SHINE) Trial: Protocol for school-age follow-up. Wellcome Open Res 2023; 8:306. [PMID: 38031545 PMCID: PMC10685067 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.19463.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: There is a need for follow-up of early-life stunting intervention trials into childhood to determine their long-term impact. A holistic school-age assessment of health, growth, physical and cognitive function will help to comprehensively characterise the sustained effects of early-life interventions. Methods: The Sanitation Hygiene Infant Nutrition Efficacy (SHINE) trial in rural Zimbabwe assessed the effects of improved infant and young child feeding (IYCF) and/or improved water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) on stunting and anaemia at 18 months. Among children enrolled to SHINE, 1,275 have been followed up at 7-8 years of age (1,000 children who have not been exposed to HIV, 268 exposed to HIV antenatally who remain HIV negative and 7 HIV positive children). Children were assessed using the School-Age Health, Activity, Resilience, Anthropometry and Neurocognitive (SAHARAN) toolbox, to measure their growth, body composition, cognitive and physical function. In parallel, a caregiver questionnaire assessed household demographics, socioeconomic status, adversity, nurturing, caregiver support, food and water insecurity. A monthly morbidity questionnaire is currently being administered by community health workers to evaluate school-age rates of infection and healthcare-seeking. The impact of the SHINE IYCF and WASH interventions, the early-life 'exposome', maternal HIV, and contemporary exposures on each school-age outcome will be assessed. We will also undertake an exploratory factor analysis to generate new, simpler metrics for assessment of cognition (COG-SAHARAN), growth (GROW-SAHARAN) and combined growth, cognitive and physical function (SUB-SAHARAN). The SUB-SAHARAN toolbox will be used to conduct annual assessments within the SHINE cohort from ages 8-12 years. Ethics and dissemination: Approval was obtained from Medical Research Council of Zimbabwe (08/02/21) and registered with Pan-African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR202201828512110, 24/01/22). Primary caregivers provided written informed consent and children written assent. Findings will be disseminated through community sensitisation, peer-reviewed journals and stakeholders including the Zimbabwean Ministry of Health and Child Care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph D. Piper
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, England, UK
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Clever Mazhanga
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Marian Mwapaura
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Gloria Mapako
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Idah Mapurisa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Tsitsi Mashedze
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Eunice Munyama
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Maria Kuona
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Thombizodwa Mashiri
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Kundai Sibanda
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Dzidzai Matemavi
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Monica Tichagwa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Soneni Nyoni
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Asinje Saidi
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Manasa Mangwende
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Dzivaidzo Chidhanguro
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Eddington Mpofu
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Joice Tome
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Batsirai Mutasa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Bernard Chasekwa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Melanie Smuk
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, England, UK
| | - Laura E. Smith
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
- Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | | | | | | | - Kuda Mutasa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Virginia Sauramba
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Lisa F. Langhaug
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Naume V. Tavengwa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - Melissa J. Gladstone
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, England, UK
| | - Jonathan C. Wells
- Population Policy and Practice Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Elizabeth Allen
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Jean H. Humphrey
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Robert Ntozini
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
| | - SHINE Follow-up team
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, England, UK
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
- Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
- Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, England, UK
- Population Policy and Practice Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Andrew J. Prendergast
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, England, UK
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Harare Province, Zimbabwe
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Piper JD, Mazhanga C, Mapako G, Mapurisa I, Mashedze T, Munyama E, Mwapaura M, Chidhanguro D, Mpofu E, Mutasa B, Gladstone MJ, Wells JC, Langhaug LF, Tavengwa NV, Ntozini R, Prendergast AJ. Characterising school-age health and function in rural Zimbabwe using the SAHARAN toolbox. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285570. [PMID: 37167268 PMCID: PMC10174535 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We developed the School-Age Health, Activity, Resilience, Anthropometry and Neurocognitive (SAHARAN) toolbox to address the shortage of school-age assessment tools that combine growth, physical and cognitive function. Here we present i) development, acceptability and feasibility of the SAHARAN toolbox; ii) characteristics of a pilot cohort; and iii) associations between the domains measured in the cohort. METHODS Growth was measured with anthropometry, knee-heel length and skinfold thicknesses. Bioimpedance analysis measured lean mass index and phase angle. Cognition was assessed using the mental processing index, derived from the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children version 2, a fine motor finger-tapping task, and School Achievement Test (SAT). Physical function combined grip strength, broad jump and the 20m shuttle-run test to produce a total physical score. A caregiver questionnaire was performed in parallel. RESULTS The SAHARAN toolbox was feasible to implement in rural Zimbabwe, and highly acceptable to children and caregivers following some minor modifications. Eighty children with mean (SD) age 7.6 (0.2) years had mean height-for-age (HAZ) and weight-for-age Z-scores (WAZ) of -0.63 (0.81) and -0.55 (0.85), respectively. Lean mass index and total skinfold thicknesses were related to WAZ and BMI Z-score, but not to HAZ. Total physical score was associated with unit rises in HAZ (1.29, 95% CI 0.75, 1.82, p<0.001), and lean mass index (0.50, 95% CI 0.16, 0.83, p = 0.004), but not skinfold thicknesses. The SAT was associated with unit increases in the mental processing index and child socioemotional score. The caregiver questionnaire identified high levels of adversity and food insecurity. CONCLUSIONS The SAHARAN toolbox provided a feasible and acceptable holistic assessment of child growth and function in mid-childhood. We found clear associations between growth, height-adjusted lean mass and physical function, but not cognitive function. The SAHARAN toolbox could be deployed to characterise school-age growth, development and function elsewhere in sub-Saharan Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joe D. Piper
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Clever Mazhanga
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Gloria Mapako
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Idah Mapurisa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Tsitsi Mashedze
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Eunice Munyama
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Marian Mwapaura
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Eddington Mpofu
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Batsirai Mutasa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Melissa J. Gladstone
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan C. Wells
- Population Policy and Practice Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa F. Langhaug
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Naume V. Tavengwa
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Robert Ntozini
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Andrew J. Prendergast
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kang Y, Heidkamp RA, Mako-Mushaninga K, Garg A, Matji JN, Nyawo M, Craig HC, Thorne-Lyman AL. Factors associated with diet diversity among infants and young children in the Eastern and Southern Africa region. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2023:e13487. [PMID: 36924028 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
This study explores common factors associated with not meeting minimum dietary diversity (MDD) among 27,072 children aged 6-23 months in Eastern and Southern Africa using data from nine Demographic and Health Surveys from 2013 to 2016. MDD was defined as consumption of more than or equals to five of eight food groups including breast milk in the past 24 h. Equity gaps were calculated as the difference in MDD prevalence between the top and bottom wealth quintiles. Logistic regression was conducted to identify common factors for not meeting MDD at the household, maternal and child levels across two or more countries to inform regional policies to improve children's diets. Kenya had the highest MDD wealth equity gap (40.4 pts), and South Africa had the smallest (14.4 pts). Equity gaps for flesh foods or eggs (up to 39.8 pp) were larger than for grain or legumes (up to 20 pp). Common risk factors for not reaching MDD included younger child age (6-11 months) (n = 9 countries), no formal maternal occupation (n = 6), not receiving vitamin-A supplementation (n = 3), younger maternal age (n = 3), lower maternal education (n = 3), no media (n = 3) or newspaper (n = 3) exposure, lower household wealth quintile (n = 3), use of nonefficient cooking fuel (n = 2), longer time to get to the water source (n = 2), not listening to the radio (n = 2) and higher birth order (n = 2). Priorities for improving MDD in the region include introducing diverse foods at a young age from 6 months with early nutrition counselling, promoting higher maternal education, increasing food purchasing power and ensuring the support of younger mothers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunhee Kang
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Rebecca A Heidkamp
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Aashima Garg
- UNICEF Program Division, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Joan N Matji
- UNICEF Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mara Nyawo
- UNICEF Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Hope C Craig
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Andrew L Thorne-Lyman
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Leight J, Pedehombga A, Ganaba R, Gelli A. Women's empowerment, maternal depression, and stress: Evidence from rural Burkina Faso. SSM - MENTAL HEALTH 2022; 2:100160. [PMID: 36688233 PMCID: PMC9792374 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmmh.2022.100160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Though there is a wide array of evidence that women's empowerment is associated with more positive health and nutritional outcomes for women and children, evidence around the relationship with mental health or subjective well-being remains relatively limited. The objective of this paper is to explore this relationship in longitudinal data from rural Burkina Faso. Methods We analyze the association between empowerment measured using the project-level Women's Empowerment in Agriculture Index (pro-WEAI), and two additional outcomes of interest: stress (measured using the SRQ-20) and maternal depression (measured using the Edinburgh scale for post-partum depression). The analysis employs both cross-sectional specifications and panel specifications conditional on individual fixed effects. Results We find evidence of substantial negative correlations between the empowerment score and maternal stress and depression measured using both continuous and binary variables. This relationship seems to be particularly driven by self-efficacy and respect among household members, where higher scores have negative associations with depression and stress that are both large in magnitude and precisely estimated. Conclusion Enhanced mental health may be another channel for a positive effect of empowerment on women's welfare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Leight
- International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), USA
| | | | | | - Aulo Gelli
- International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Mohammed S, Oakley LL, Marston M, Glynn JR, Calvert C. The association of breastfeeding with cognitive development and educational achievement in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review. J Glob Health 2022; 12:04071. [PMID: 36057881 PMCID: PMC9441109 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.12.04071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of studies mainly from high-income countries suggest that breastfeeding improves cognitive function and educational achievement. However, these associations may be a manifestation of who breastfeeds in these settings rather than an actual effect of breastfeeding. We investigated the association of breastfeeding with cognitive development and educational achievements in sub-Saharan Africa, where breastfeeding is the norm, and socioeconomic status is not strongly correlated with ever breastfeeding. Methods We searched Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Africa-Wide Information in January 2021 for studies that assessed the cognitive and educational benefits of breastfeeding in children and adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa. Two reviewers independently screened, extracted, and critically appraised the included studies. Results After reviewing 5552 abstracts and 151 full-text articles, seventeen studies on cognitive development and two on educational achievements met our predefined inclusion criteria. The included studies were from ten sub-Saharan African countries and published between 2013 and 2021, with sample sizes ranging from 54 to 6573. Most of the studies (n = 14) were prospective cohort studies, but only nine collected data on breastfeeding prospectively. The studies differed in analytic approaches and cognitive and educational achievements measurements. Of the 17 studies on cognitive development, only four adjusted sufficiently for key confounders. None of these four studies found an overall association between breastfeeding and cognitive development in children or adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa. The two studies on education measured achievements based on the highest grade of school attained, 12 or more years of education, or grade repetition at age 7-11 years. Both studies adjusted for a range of sociodemographic factors and found no evidence that children exclusively breastfed or breastfed for a longer duration have a better educational outcome than sub-optimally breastfed children. Conclusions The current evidence from sub-Saharan Africa is limited but does not corroborate previous findings that breastfeeding is associated with improved cognitive development and educational achievement. Registration This study is registered with PROSPERO, CRD42021236009.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shamsudeen Mohammed
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Laura L Oakley
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Milly Marston
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Judith R Glynn
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Clara Calvert
- Centre for Global Health, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Bliznashka L, Perumal N, Yousafzai A, Sudfeld C. Diet and development among children aged 36-59 months in low-income countries. Arch Dis Child 2022; 107:719-725. [PMID: 34952837 PMCID: PMC9304107 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2021-323218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the associations between diet, stimulation and development among children 36-59 months of age in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). DESIGN We pooled Demographic and Health Survey data on 12 126 children aged 36-59 months from 15 LMICs. Child diet indicators included dietary diversity score (DDS, range 0-7), minimum dietary diversity (MDD, defined as DDS ≥4) and animal source foods (ASFs) consumption. Child development was assessed using the Early Childhood Development Index and stimulation by the number of stimulation activities (range 0-6). Associations were assessed using generalised linear models. RESULTS In our sample, 18% of children met MDD and 50% received ≥4 stimulation activities. The prevalence of suboptimal cognitive, socioemotional, literacy-numeracy and physical development was 24%, 32%, 87% and 11%, respectively. Higher DDS, meeting MDD and consuming ASFs were associated with 8%-13% more stimulation activities. Children who met MDD were slightly less likely to have suboptimal literacy-numeracy development compared with children who did not meet MDD: relative risk 0.97 (95% CI 0.95 to 1.00). DDS, meeting MDD and ASFs consumption were not associated with cognitive, socioemotional or physical development. However, there was evidence of positive associations between MDD and cognitive and literacy-numeracy development among subgroups of children, including those who received ≥4 stimulation activities or attended an early childhood care and education programme. CONCLUSIONS Child diet was associated with more stimulation activities. However, independent of stimulation, socioeconomic status and other factors, child diet appeared to be a prominent determinant only of literacy-numeracy development among children 36-59 months of age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lilia Bliznashka
- Global Academy of Agriculture and Food Security, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK .,Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nandita Perumal
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Aisha Yousafzai
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christopher Sudfeld
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA,Department of Nutrition, Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
George CM, Coglianese N, Bauler S, Perin J, Kuhl J, Williams C, Kang Y, Thomas ED, François R, Ng A, Presence AS, Jean Claude BR, Tofail F, Mirindi P, Cirhuza LB. Low dietary diversity is associated with linear growth faltering and subsequent adverse child developmental outcomes in rural Democratic Republic of the Congo (REDUCE program). MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2022; 18:e13340. [PMID: 35313062 PMCID: PMC9218309 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate the association between dietary diversity, child growth and child developmental outcomes. This was a prospective cohort study. Developmental outcomes were assessed by communication, fine motor, gross motor, personal social, problem solving and combined developmental scores measured by the Extended Ages and Stages Questionnaire (EASQ) at a 6‐month follow‐up visit. Height and weight were measured at baseline and a 6‐month follow‐up. Baseline minimum dietary diversity (MDD) for children 6–23 months old was defined by consumption of five or more of the following food groups: (1) breast milk; (2) grains, roots and tubers; (3) legumes and nuts; (4) dairy products; (5) flesh foods; (6) eggs; (7) vitamin A‐rich fruits and vegetables and (8) other fruits and vegetables. Participants were 117 children 6–23 months of age. Linear growth faltering was defined as a significant decline (p < 0.05) in length‐for‐age Z‐scores (LAZ) between baseline and follow‐up. Regression models were performed. The study was conducted in rural eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). MDD was positively associated with change in LAZ (coefficient: 0.87 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.33, 1.40]), and a reduced odds of stunting (LAZ < −2) (odds ratio: 0.21 [95% CI: 0.07, 0.61]). MDD was also associated with a significantly higher combined EASQ‐Z‐scores (coefficient: 0.34 [95% CI: 0.003, 0.68], higher communication EASQ‐Z‐scores [0.50 {95% CI: 0.14, 0.85}], and higher personal social EASQ‐Z‐scores [0.46 {95% CI: 0.11, 0.82}]). This study provides further evidence demonstrating the need for interventions to improve dietary diversity among young children. Dietary diversity was low among young children in our study setting in rural eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Low dietary diversity was associated with linear growth faltering and lower child developmental outcomes. This study provides further evidence demonstrating the need for interventions to improve dietary diversity among young children to improve child health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine Marie George
- Department of International Health Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Baltimore Maryland USA
| | | | - Sarah Bauler
- Health Division Food for the Hungry Phoenix Arizona USA
| | - Jamie Perin
- Department of International Health Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Jennifer Kuhl
- Department of International Health Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Camille Williams
- Department of International Health Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Yunhee Kang
- Department of International Health Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Elizabeth D. Thomas
- Department of International Health Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Ruthly François
- Department of International Health Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Angela Ng
- Department of International Health Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Baltimore Maryland USA
| | | | | | - Fahmida Tofail
- Nutrition Division International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research Dhaka Bangladesh
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Nampijja M, Mutua AM, Elliott AM, Muriuki JM, Abubakar A, Webb EL, Atkinson SH. Low Hemoglobin Levels Are Associated with Reduced Psychomotor and Language Abilities in Young Ugandan Children. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14071452. [PMID: 35406065 PMCID: PMC9002834 DOI: 10.3390/nu14071452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Children living in Sub-Saharan Africa are vulnerable to developmental delay, particularly in the critical first five years due to various adverse exposures including disease and nutritional deficiencies. Anemia and iron deficiency (ID) are highly prevalent in pregnant mothers and young children and are implicated in abnormal brain development. However, available evidence on the association between anemia, ID and neurodevelopment in sub-Saharan Africa is limited. Using data from the Entebbe Mother and Baby Study prospective birth cohort, we examined the effect of maternal and child hemoglobin (Hb) levels and child iron status on developmental scores in 933 and 530 pre-school Ugandan children respectively. Associations between Hb levels, iron status and developmental scores were assessed using regression analyses adjusting for potential confounders. Lower maternal and child Hb levels were associated with reduced psychomotor scores at 15 months, while only lower Hb levels in infancy were associated with reduced language scores. We found no evidence that anemia or ID was associated with cognitive or motor scores at five years. This study emphasizes the importance of managing anemia in pregnancy and infancy and highlights the need for further studies on the effects of anemia and ID in children living in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Nampijja
- Maternal and Child Wellbeing (MCW) Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi 00100, Kenya;
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe P.O. Box 49, Uganda;
| | - Agnes M. Mutua
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Wellcome Trust Research Programme, KEMRI Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, Kilifi 230-80108, Kenya; (J.M.M.); (A.A.)
- Correspondence: (A.M.M.); (S.H.A.); Tel.: +254-709983677-76 (A.M.M. & S.H.A.)
| | - Alison M. Elliott
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe P.O. Box 49, Uganda;
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - John Muthii Muriuki
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Wellcome Trust Research Programme, KEMRI Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, Kilifi 230-80108, Kenya; (J.M.M.); (A.A.)
| | - Amina Abubakar
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Wellcome Trust Research Programme, KEMRI Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, Kilifi 230-80108, Kenya; (J.M.M.); (A.A.)
- Department of Public Health, School of Human and Health Sciences, Pwani University, Kilifi 195-80108, Kenya
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7JX, UK
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi 30270-00100, Kenya
| | - Emily L. Webb
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK;
| | - Sarah H. Atkinson
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Wellcome Trust Research Programme, KEMRI Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, Kilifi 230-80108, Kenya; (J.M.M.); (A.A.)
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FZ, UK
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Correspondence: (A.M.M.); (S.H.A.); Tel.: +254-709983677-76 (A.M.M. & S.H.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Basnet S, Frongillo EA, Nguyen PH, Moore S, Arabi M. Maternal resources for care are associated with child growth and early childhood development in Bangladesh and Vietnam. Child Care Health Dev 2022; 48:120-128. [PMID: 34505301 PMCID: PMC9292560 DOI: 10.1111/cch.12911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suboptimal child growth and development are significant problems in low- and middle-income countries. Maternal resources for care may help to improve growth and development. This study examined the association of maternal resources for care on child length, motor development and language development of children 12-23.9 months old. METHODS We used baseline data from the Alive & Thrive household surveys collected in Bangladesh (n = 803) and Vietnam (n = 635). Resources for care were represented by maternal education, knowledge, height, well-nourishment, mental well-being, decision-making, employment, support in chores and perceived support. The regression analyses were adjusted for household wealth and other covariates on households, children and parents and accounted for geographical clustering. RESULTS Maternal height (Bangladesh β = 0.150 p < 0.001, Vietnam β = 0.156 p < 0.001), well-nourishment (Vietnam β = 0.882 p = 0.007) and mental well-being (Bangladesh β = 0.0649 p = 0.008, Vietnam β = 0.0742 p = 0.039) were associated with child length. Well-nourishment (Vietnam β = 0.670 p = 0.042) and support in chores (Bangladesh β = 0.0983 p = 0.021) were associated with child motor development. Mental well-being (Vietnam β = 0.0735 p = 0.013), decision-making autonomy (Bangladesh β = 0.0886 p = 0.029) and perceived support (Vietnam β = 0.445 p = 0.003) were associated with child language development. CONCLUSION Maternal height, well-nourishment, mental well-being, decision-making, support in chores and perceived social support were associated with child outcomes. Interventions that help to improve resources among mothers have potential to foster child growth and development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sulochana Basnet
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and BehaviorUniversity of South CarolinaColumbiaSouth CarolinaUSA
| | - Edward A. Frongillo
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and BehaviorUniversity of South CarolinaColumbiaSouth CarolinaUSA
| | - Phuong Hong Nguyen
- International Food Policy Research InstituteWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | - Spencer Moore
- Health & Society GroupWageningen University & ResearchWageningenNetherlands
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Prado EL, Arnold CD, Wessells KR, Stewart CP, Abbeddou S, Adu-Afarwuah S, Arnold BF, Ashorn U, Ashorn P, Becquey E, Brown KH, Chandna J, Christian P, Dentz HN, Dulience SJL, Fernald LC, Galasso E, Hallamaa L, Hess SY, Huybregts L, Iannotti LL, Jimenez EY, Kohl P, Lartey A, Le Port A, Luby SP, Maleta K, Matchado A, Matias SL, Mridha MK, Ntozini R, Null C, Ocansey ME, Parvez SM, Phuka J, Pickering AJ, Prendergast AJ, Shamim AA, Siddiqui Z, Tofail F, Weber AM, Wu L, Dewey KG. Small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements for children age 6-24 months: a systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis of effects on developmental outcomes and effect modifiers. Am J Clin Nutr 2021; 114:43S-67S. [PMID: 34590116 PMCID: PMC8560311 DOI: 10.1093/ajcn/nqab277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Small-quantity (SQ) lipid-based nutrient supplements (LNSs) provide many nutrients needed for brain development. OBJECTIVES We aimed to generate pooled estimates of the effect of SQ-LNSs on developmental outcomes (language, social-emotional, motor, and executive function), and to identify study-level and individual-level modifiers of these effects. METHODS We conducted a 2-stage meta-analysis of individual participant data from 14 intervention against control group comparisons in 13 randomized trials of SQ-LNSs provided to children age 6-24 mo (total n = 30,024). RESULTS In 11-13 intervention against control group comparisons (n = 23,588-24,561), SQ-LNSs increased mean language (mean difference: 0.07 SD; 95% CI: 0.04, 0.10 SD), social-emotional (0.08; 0.05, 0.11 SD), and motor scores (0.08; 95% CI: 0.05, 0.11 SD) and reduced the prevalence of children in the lowest decile of these scores by 16% (prevalence ratio: 0.84; 95% CI: 0.76, 0.92), 19% (0.81; 95% CI: 0.74, 0.89), and 16% (0.84; 95% CI: 0.76, 0.92), respectively. SQ-LNSs also increased the prevalence of children walking without support at 12 mo by 9% (1.09; 95% CI: 1.05, 1.14). Effects of SQ-LNSs on language, social-emotional, and motor outcomes were larger among study populations with a higher stunting burden (≥35%) (mean difference: 0.11-0.13 SD; 8-9 comparisons). At the individual level, greater effects of SQ-LNSs were found on language among children who were acutely malnourished (mean difference: 0.31) at baseline; on language (0.12), motor (0.11), and executive function (0.06) among children in households with lower socioeconomic status; and on motor development among later-born children (0.11), children of older mothers (0.10), and children of mothers with lower education (0.11). CONCLUSIONS Child SQ-LNSs can be expected to result in modest developmental gains, which would be analogous to 1-1.5 IQ points on an IQ test, particularly in populations with a high child stunting burden. Certain groups of children who experience higher-risk environments have greater potential to benefit from SQ-LNSs in developmental outcomes.This trial was registered at www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO as CRD42020159971.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth L Prado
- Institute for Global Nutrition & Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Charles D Arnold
- Institute for Global Nutrition & Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - K Ryan Wessells
- Institute for Global Nutrition & Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Christine P Stewart
- Institute for Global Nutrition & Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Souheila Abbeddou
- Public Health Nutrition, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Seth Adu-Afarwuah
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Benjamin F Arnold
- Francis I Proctor Foundation, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ulla Ashorn
- Center for Child Health Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Per Ashorn
- Center for Child Health Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Paediatrics, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Elodie Becquey
- Poverty, Health, and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kenneth H Brown
- Institute for Global Nutrition & Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
- Helen Keller International, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jaya Chandna
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Parul Christian
- Program in Human Nutrition, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Holly N Dentz
- Institute for Global Nutrition & Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | | | - Lia C H Fernald
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Lotta Hallamaa
- Center for Child Health Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Sonja Y Hess
- Institute for Global Nutrition & Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Lieven Huybregts
- Poverty, Health, and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lora L Iannotti
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Elizabeth Y Jimenez
- Departments of Pediatrics and Internal Medicine and College of Population Health, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Patricia Kohl
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Anna Lartey
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Stephen P Luby
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kenneth Maleta
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Andrew Matchado
- Malawi Epidemiology and Intervention Research Unit, Karonga, Malawi
| | - Susana L Matias
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Malay K Mridha
- Center for Non-communicable Diseases and Nutrition, BRAC James P Grant School of Public Health, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Robert Ntozini
- Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | | | - Sarker M Parvez
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - John Phuka
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | | | - Abu A Shamim
- Center for Non-communicable Diseases and Nutrition, BRAC James P Grant School of Public Health, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Zakia Siddiqui
- Healthy Systems and Population Studies Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Fahmida Tofail
- Nutrition and Clinical Sciences Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Ann M Weber
- Division of Epidemiology, School of Community Health Sciences, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Lee S F Wu
- Program in Human Nutrition, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kathryn G Dewey
- Institute for Global Nutrition & Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Breast Milk Micronutrients and Infant Neurodevelopmental Outcomes: A Systematic Review. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13113848. [PMID: 34836103 PMCID: PMC8624933 DOI: 10.3390/nu13113848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Micronutrients are fundamental for healthy brain development and deficiencies during early development can have a severe and lasting impact on cognitive outcomes. Evidence indicates that undernourished lactating individuals may produce breast milk containing lower concentrations of certain vitamins and minerals. Exclusively breastfed infants born to mothers deficient in micronutrients may therefore be at risk of micronutrient deficiencies, with potential implications for neurodevelopment. This systematic review aims to consider current knowledge on the effects of breast milk micronutrients on the developmental outcomes of infants. The databases Medline, Global Health, PsychInfo, Open Grey, and the Web of Science were searched for papers published before February 2021. Studies were included if they measured micronutrients in breast milk and their association with the neurodevelopmental outcomes of exclusively breastfed infants. Also, randomised control trials investigating neurocognitive outcomes following maternal supplementation during lactation were sought. From 5477 initial results, three observational studies were eligible for inclusion. These investigated associations between breast milk levels of vitamin B6, carotenoids, or selenium and infant development. Results presented suggest that pyroxidal, β-carotene, and lycopene are associated with infant neurodevelopmental outcomes. Limited eligible literature and heterogeneity between included papers prevented quantitative synthesis. Insufficient evidence was identified, precluding any conclusions on the relationship between breast milk micronutrients and infant developmental outcomes. Further, the evidence available was limited by a high risk of bias. This highlights the need for further research in this area to understand the long-term influence of micronutrients in breast milk, the role of other breast milk micronutrients in infant neurodevelopmental outcomes, and the impact of possible lactational interventions.
Collapse
|
25
|
Perumal N, Manji KP, Darling AM, Kisenge RR, Kvestad I, Hysing M, Belinger DC, Urassa W, Strand TA, Duggan CP, Fawzi WW, Sudfeld CR. Gestational Age, Birth Weight, and Neurocognitive Development in Adolescents in Tanzania. J Pediatr 2021; 236:194-203.e6. [PMID: 33901518 PMCID: PMC8403162 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2021.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the association between gestational age, birthweight, and birthweight adjusted for gestational age, with domains of neurocognitive development and behavioral problems in adolescents in Tanzania. STUDY DESIGN Data from a long-term follow-up of adolescents aged 11-15 years born to women previously enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of prenatal multiple micronutrient supplementation in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, were used. A battery of neurodevelopmental tests were administered to measure adolescent general intelligence, executive function, and behavioral problems. The INTERGROWTH-21st newborn anthropometric standards were used to derive birthweight for gestational age z-scores. We assessed the shape of relationships using restricted cubic splines and estimated the associations of gestational age, birthweight, and birthweight for gestational age z-score with adolescent development using multivariable linear regressions. RESULTS Among adolescents studied (n = 421), higher gestational age (per week), birthweight (per 100 grams), and birthweight for gestational age z-score (per SD) were linearly associated with higher intelligence score (adjusted standardized mean difference, 0.05 SD [95% CI, 0.01-0.09], 0.04 SD [95% CI, 0.02-0.06], and 0.09 SD [95% CI, 0.01-0.17], respectively). Birthweight and birthweight for gestational age z-score, but not gestational age, were also associated with improved executive function. Low birthweight (<2500 g) was associated with lower intelligence and executive function scores. Associations between birthweight and executive function were stronger among adolescents born to women with higher education. CONCLUSIONS The duration of gestation and birthweight were positively associated with adolescent neurodevelopment in Tanzania. These findings suggest that interventions to improve birth outcomes may also benefit adolescent cognitive function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nandita Perumal
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA.
| | - Karim P Manji
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Anne Marie Darling
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Rodrick R Kisenge
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ingrid Kvestad
- Regional Center for Child and Youth Mental Health and Child Welfare, NORCE Norwegian Research Center, Bergen, Norway
| | - Mari Hysing
- Department of Psychological Science, Faculty of Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Willy Urassa
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Tor A Strand
- Department of Research, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Lillehammer, Norway; Faculty of Medicine, Centre for International Health, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Christopher P Duggan
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA; Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Wafaie W Fawzi
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA; Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Christopher R Sudfeld
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA; Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Nguyen PH, Tran LM, Khuong LQ, Young MF, Duong TH, Nguyen HC, DiGirolamo AM, Martorell R, Ramakrishnan U. Child Linear Growth During and After the First 1000 Days Is Positively Associated with Intellectual Functioning and Mental Health in School-Age Children in Vietnam. J Nutr 2021; 151:2816-2824. [PMID: 34113979 PMCID: PMC8417934 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxab182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Millions of children fail to meet their developmental potential and experience mental health concerns globally. Evidence is mixed on whether growth beyond the first 1000 d of life influences intellectual functioning and mental health in school-age children. OBJECTIVES We examined associations of childhood growth before and after the first 1000 d of life with child intellectual functioning and mental health at age 6-7 y. METHODS We used data from a follow-up of a randomized controlled trial of preconception supplementation (PRECONCEPT study) in Vietnam. A total of 5011 women participated in the study and 1579 children were born during 2012-2014. At age 6-7 y, child intellectual functioning was assessed using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, and mental health concerns were measured using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Multivariable linear models were used to examine the independent association of child size at age 2 y [height-for-age z-score (HAZ) and body-mass-index z-score (BMIZ)] and conditional measures of linear and ponderal growth between the ages of 2 and 7 y. RESULTS HAZ at 2 y was positively associated with the Full-Scale Intelligence Quotient (β = 1.4; 95% CI: 0.5, 2.2 points) and its subdomains, namely Perceptual Reasoning Index, Working Memory Index, and Processing Speed Index (β = 1.0-1.4 points). Higher HAZ at 2 y was associated with lower overall mental health concerns (β = -0.24; 95% CI: -0.47, -0.01) and peer problems (β = -0.08; 95% CI: -0.17, -0.01). Faster height gain between 2 and 7 y was associated with higher total intellectual functioning (β = 0.9; 95% CI: 0.02, 1.8) and fewer emotional issues (β = -0.09; 95% CI: -0.18, -0.01). BMIZ at 2 y was not associated with intellectual functioning but was marginally associated with higher conduct and peer problems. Conditional weight gain between 2 and 7 y was not associated with child intellectual functioning or mental health in young school-age children. CONCLUSIONS Child linear growth both during and beyond the first 1000 d is positively associated with intellectual functioning and mental health during the early school-age years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lan Mai Tran
- Thai Nguyen National Hospital, Thai Nguyen, Vietnam
| | | | - Melissa F Young
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Thai Hong Duong
- Thai Nguyen University of Pharmacy and Medicine, Thai Nguyen, Vietnam,Thai Nguyen National Hospital, Thai Nguyen, Vietnam
| | - Hoang Cong Nguyen
- Thai Nguyen University of Pharmacy and Medicine, Thai Nguyen, Vietnam,Thai Nguyen National Hospital, Thai Nguyen, Vietnam
| | | | | | - Usha Ramakrishnan
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Physical fitness and cognitive function among school-aged children in selected basic schools in the Ho Municipality of Ghana. Heliyon 2021; 7:e06324. [PMID: 33732918 PMCID: PMC7944041 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Physical fitness is thought to promote cognitive function. Evidence about this is however lacking in the Ghanaian context. This study aimed to investigate the association between physical fitness and cognitive function among basic school children aged 8–13 years. A cross-sectional study involving 591 school children, recruited from 12 randomly selected public and private basic schools was conducted. Physical fitness tests were done using a five-test battery (Fifty metre run, handgrip strength, sit-up, flexibility and standing board jump) following standardized procedures. Cognitive function test using the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) were carried out. More girls (55%), children from 8-13 years old (49.1%) and public school children (66.1%) participated in the study. For fitness, boys performed better than girls in sit ups 3.4 ± 2.2 (mean ± SD), p = 0.012, handgrip 4.3 ± 2.0, p = 0.001 and overall fitness 4.3 ± 2.0, p = 0.007. Children in public schools performed significantly better in forward jump (p < 0.001) while those in private schools did better in 50m run (p < 0.001). For cognition, 46.1% of participants had less than 50% of the total score. Cognitive test score varied for forward jump and handgrip alone and not for sit ups, 50m run and overall score. Mean forward jump score was lowest in poor cognition group (4.9 ± 2.3), followed by good (5.3 ± 2.2) and highest among excellent (5.5 ± 2.3, p = 0.044) cognition group. Similar observation was made for handgrip. Cognition score and hand grip strength were positively but weakly correlated. (r = 0.132, p = 0.026). Although handgrip strength (measuring muscular strength) was significantly associated with cognitive function, this study found no significant association between overall physical fitness and cognitive function. These results indicate that only some components of physical fitness may be associated with cognitive function. This study is however correlational and one cannot infer causality.
Collapse
|
28
|
Isquith-Dicker LN, Kwist A, Black D, Hawes SE, Slyker J, Bergquist S, Martin-Herz SP. Early Child Development Assessments and Their Associations with Long-Term Academic and Economic Outcomes: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18041538. [PMID: 33562795 PMCID: PMC7915620 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18041538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Developmental screening instruments were designed as diagnostic tools, but there is growing interest in understanding whether select tools can also be used systematically in research to examine intervention impacts on long-term outcomes. As such, this systematic review aims to examine associations between child development assessment tools and educational attainment, academic achievement, or wealth. We included studies identified in PubMed, PsycINFO, and Educational Resources Information Center if they reported an association between at least one tool from a pre-established list and one outcome of interest after age 10. Of 597 studies identified, 11 met inclusion criteria; three examined educational attainment as the outcome of interest, six examined academic achievement, one wealth, and one both educational attainment and wealth. Intelligence tests were utilized in five of the included studies, neuropsychological/executive function or behavior tools were used in five, and one study used tools across the domains. High-quality studies were identified across all three of the domains, but educational attainment and wealth had the greatest proportion of high-quality studies, as compared to academic achievement. Our review demonstrates the potential for certain child development assessment tools to adequately assess long-term outcomes of interest, but additional prospective studies using validated, culturally appropriate tools are needed. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42018092292.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leah N. Isquith-Dicker
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington START Center, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (L.N.I.-D.); (A.K.); (D.B.); (S.E.H.); (J.S.)
- Department of Anthropology, School of Public Health, University of Washingto, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Andrew Kwist
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington START Center, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (L.N.I.-D.); (A.K.); (D.B.); (S.E.H.); (J.S.)
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Danae Black
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington START Center, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (L.N.I.-D.); (A.K.); (D.B.); (S.E.H.); (J.S.)
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Stephen E. Hawes
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington START Center, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (L.N.I.-D.); (A.K.); (D.B.); (S.E.H.); (J.S.)
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Jennifer Slyker
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington START Center, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (L.N.I.-D.); (A.K.); (D.B.); (S.E.H.); (J.S.)
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Sharon Bergquist
- Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, 500 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, USA;
| | - Susanne P. Martin-Herz
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, 1825 Fourth St., 6th Floor, UCSF Box 4054, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-415-502-1338
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Rothstein JD, Buckland AJ, Gagnier K, Ochoa M, Allen-Valley A, Jivapong B, Cabrera LZ, Leontsini E, Fisher KR. Assessing the play and learning environments of children under two years in peri-urban Lima, Peru: a formative research study. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:108. [PMID: 33422022 PMCID: PMC7796591 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-10119-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Home-based interventions have potential for improving early child development (ECD) in low-resource settings. The design of locally acceptable strategies requires an in-depth understanding of the household context. In this formative research study, we aimed to characterize the home play and learning environments of children 6-23 months of age from low-income households in peri-urban Lima, Peru. METHODS Drawing on the developmental niche framework, we used quantitative and qualitative methods to understand children's physical and social settings, childcare practices, and caregiver perspectives. We conducted interviews, unstructured video-recorded observations, and spot-checks with 30 randomly selected caregiver-child dyads, 10 from each child age group of 6-11, 12-17, and 18-23 months of age, as well as key informant interviews with 12 daycare instructors. We analyzed the data for key trends and themes using Stata and ATLAS.ti and employed an adapted version of the Indicator of Parent-Child Interaction to evaluate the observations. RESULTS Children's social settings were characterized by multi-generational homes and the presence of siblings and cousins as play partners. Access to books and complex hand-eye coordination toys (e.g., puzzles, building blocks) in the home was limited (30.0 and 40.0%, respectively). Caregivers generally demonstrated low or inconsistent levels of interaction with their children; they rarely communicated using descriptive language or introduced novel, stimulating activities during play. Reading and telling stories to children were uncommon, yet 93.3% of caregivers reported singing to children daily. On average, caregivers ascribed a high learning value to reading books and playing with electronic toys (rated 9.7 and 9.1 out of 10, respectively), and perceived playing with everyday objects in the home as less beneficial (rated 6.8/10). Daycare instructors reinforced the problems posed by limited caregiver-child interaction and supported the use of songs for promoting ECD. CONCLUSIONS The features of the home learning environments highlighted here indicate several opportunities for intervention development to improve ECD. These include encouraging caregivers to communicate with children using full sentences and enhancing the use of everyday objects as toys. There is also great potential for leveraging song and music to encourage responsive caregiver-child interactions within the home setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica D Rothstein
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Audrey J Buckland
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kristin Gagnier
- Science of Learning Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mayra Ochoa
- Asociación Benéfica Proyectos en Informática, Salud, Medicina, y Agricultura (PRISMA), Lima, Peru
| | - Aliya Allen-Valley
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Belinda Jivapong
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lilia Z Cabrera
- Asociación Benéfica Proyectos en Informática, Salud, Medicina, y Agricultura (PRISMA), Lima, Peru
| | - Elli Leontsini
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kelly R Fisher
- Science of Learning Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Fernandez Rao S, Bentley ME, Balakrishna N, Griffiths P, Creed‐Kanashiro H, Vazir S, Johnson SL. A complementary feeding and play intervention improves the home environment and mental development among toddlers in rural India. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2020; 16 Suppl 3:e13066. [PMID: 33347725 PMCID: PMC7752118 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A cluster randomized trial design was used to test the efficacy of a behaviour change communication intervention on the quality of the home environment and infant development at 15 months of age. Children (n = 600) in rural South India were followed from 3 through 15 months of age. The control group (C group) received the standard of care, the complementary feeding group (CF group) received recommendations on complementary foods and the responsive complementary feeding and play group (RCF&P group) received recommendations on complementary foods plus skills on responsive feeding and play. The intervention was delivered in biweekly home visits to caregivers using flip charts. At postintervention, infants (n = 521) were assessed for development (Bayley-II scales) and their home environment was assessed (Home Observation for Measurement of the Environment [HOME] scale). Cluster adjusted analysis of variance showed no significant differences at baseline. The HOME score at 15 months differed by group, F(2, 38) = 6.41, P = 0.004; the CF and RCF&P groups had higher scores than the C group. Scores on subscales 'Opportunities for Variety in Daily Stimulation' and 'Caregiver Promotion of Child Development' (CPCD) were higher for the RCF&P group than for the C and CF groups. Mental development index (MDI) scores differed by group, F(2, 37) = 3.31, P = 0.04, with the RCF&P group showing higher scores than the C group (P < 0.04); no differences were noted in psychomotor development index (PDI) scores (P = 0.48). The subscales of HOME associated with MDI at 15 months were 'CPCD' and 'Cleanliness of Child' (R2 = 0.076). 'CPCD' was also associated with PDI (R2 = 0.039). A responsive complementary feeding and play intervention delivered through home visits benefitted children's mental development and caregiving environment at 15 months.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Fernandez Rao
- Behavioral Science Unit, Extension and Training DivisionNational Institute of Nutrition (ICMR)HyderabadIndia
| | - Margaret E. Bentley
- Department of Nutrition and Carolina Population CenterUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | | | - Paula Griffiths
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health SciencesLoughborough UniversityLoughboroughUK
| | | | - Shahnaz Vazir
- Behavioral Science Unit, Extension and Training DivisionNational Institute of Nutrition (ICMR)HyderabadIndia
| | - Susan L. Johnson
- Children's Eating Laboratory, Department of Pediatrics, Section of NutritionUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraColoradoUSA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Zhao C, Guan H, Shi H, Zhang J, Huang X, Wang X. Relationships between dietary diversity and early childhood developmental outcomes in rural China. MATERNAL AND CHILD NUTRITION 2020; 17:e13073. [PMID: 32902154 PMCID: PMC7729803 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The period from birth to 2years of age is highly sensitive with respect to the relationship between nutrition and neurodevelopment, but data regarding the association between dietary diversity and early childhood neurodevelopment are limited. We sought to examine the association of two feeding indicators-minimum dietary diversity (MDD) and minimum meal frequency (MMF)-with the neurodevelopment of children aged 6-23 months, using data from a cross-sectional survey conducted in six rural counties in China. Data on 1,534 children were analysed using logistic regression to explore the associations between dietary diversity and early neurodevelopment, with adjustments for the age, sex and prematurity of the child; the age, sex and educational level of the caregiver; and family size, income and simulative care practices and resources. We found that 32.4% of children had suspected developmental delays based on the Chinese version of the Ages and Stages Questionnaires Version 3, whereas 77.0% and 39.2% failed to meet the MDD and MMF, respectively. Meeting the MDD was associated with a 39% lower risk of developmental delays (AOR = 0.61, 95% CI [0.43, 0.86]). There was a significant association between MDD and reduced likelihood of developmental delays in gross motor, fine motor, problem-solving and personal social subscales, whereas MMF was only associated with a lower risk of developmental delays in the gross motor subscale (AOR = 0.63, 95% CI [0.42, 0.94]). We observed an inverse dose-response relationship between the number of food groups consumed and the risk of developmental delays (P < .001).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunxia Zhao
- Ministry of Health Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Department of Child, Adolescent and Women's Health, School of Public Health, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Hongyan Guan
- Department of Integrated Early Childhood Development, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Huifeng Shi
- Ministry of Health Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Department of Child, Adolescent and Women's Health, School of Public Health, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jingxu Zhang
- Ministry of Health Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Department of Child, Adolescent and Women's Health, School of Public Health, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaona Huang
- Department of Integrated Early Childhood Development, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Ministry of Health Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Department of Child, Adolescent and Women's Health, School of Public Health, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Valadi S, Gabbard C, Hooshyari F. Effects of affordances in the home environment on children's personal-social, problem-solving, and communication skills. Child Care Health Dev 2020; 46:429-435. [PMID: 32026508 DOI: 10.1111/cch.12756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among the various factors forming the environment, most developmentalists are in agreement that the home is the primary agent for change in child growth and development. The present study investigated the effect of affordances in the home on personal-social, problem-solving, and communication skills of children between 18 and 42 months of age. This investigation extends work focusing on "motor" affordances as an environmental feature. METHODS Using cross-sectional design, 251 families (124 boys and 127 girls) were evaluated using the Persian translation of Affordances in the Home Environment for Motor Development and the Ages and Stages Inventories to determine the three skill competencies. RESULTS Results showed that the level of home affordances significantly impacted all three skill areas. And the total variance of predictive values in the final model had a moderate and significant ratio. Other factors such as attendance and non-attendance of children in kindergarten, family income, and education of parents were also contributing factors. CONCLUSIONS In general, these findings indicate that the home environment plays an important role in the development of personal-social, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Valadi
- Young Researchers and Elites Club, Islamic Azad University, Sciences and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Carl Gabbard
- Child Motor Development Laboratory, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Faramarz Hooshyari
- Department of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, Faculty of Humanities, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Olsen MF, Iuel-Brockdorff AS, Yaméogo CW, Cichon B, Fabiansen C, Filteau S, Phelan K, Ouédraogo A, Wells JC, Briend A, Michaelsen KF, Lauritzen L, Ritz C, Ashorn P, Christensen VB, Gladstone M, Friis H. Early development in children with moderate acute malnutrition: A cross-sectional study in Burkina Faso. MATERNAL AND CHILD NUTRITION 2019; 16:e12928. [PMID: 31823490 PMCID: PMC7083399 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.12928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Malnutrition impairs cognitive, communication, and motor development, but it is not known how nutrition and health are associated with development in children with moderate acute malnutrition (MAM). We aimed to describe motor and language development of children with MAM and explore its nutrition and health-related correlates. This cross-sectional study used baseline data from a nutritional trial in children with MAM aged 6-23 months in Burkina Faso. Motor and language skills were assessed using the Malawi Development Assessment Tool (MDAT). Linear mixed models were used to explore potential correlates of MDAT including socio-economic status, anthropometry, body composition, whole-blood polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), haemoglobin (Hb), iron status, and morbidity. We also assessed child and caregiver participation during MDAT procedures and their associations with correlates and development. MDAT data were available for 1.608 children. Mean (95% CI) MDAT z-scores were -0.39 (-0.45, -0.34) for gross motor, 0.54 (0.48, 0.59) for fine motor, and -0.91 (-0.96, -0.86) for language skills. Children with higher mid-upper arm circumference, weight-for-height, height-for-age, fat-free mass, n-3 PUFAs, Hb, and iron status had better MDAT z-scores, whereas children with more fat mass index, anaemia, illness, and inflammation had poorer z-scores. In addition, children living in larger households or with an unmarried mother had poorer MDAT z-scores. Associations between morbidity and z-scores were largely explained by children's poorer participation during MDAT assessment. The identified factors associated with child development may inform interventions needed to stimulate development during or after management of MAM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mette F Olsen
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Charles W Yaméogo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Département Biomédical et Santé Publique, Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Bernardette Cichon
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christian Fabiansen
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Suzanne Filteau
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kevin Phelan
- The Alliance for International Medical Action (ALIMA), Paris, France
| | | | - Jonathan C Wells
- Childhood Nutrition Research Centre, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - André Briend
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kim F Michaelsen
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lotte Lauritzen
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christian Ritz
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Per Ashorn
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Tampere School of Medicine and Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Vibeke B Christensen
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Health, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Medicins Sans Frontieres - Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Melissa Gladstone
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Henrik Friis
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Barnett LM, Hnatiuk JA, Salmon J, Hesketh KD. Modifiable factors which predict children's gross motor competence: a prospective cohort study. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2019; 16:129. [PMID: 31829267 PMCID: PMC6907285 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-019-0888-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fundamental motor skills (FMS) are important for physical activity and healthy weight status in children, yet it is unclear which early childhood factors facilitate subsequent motor skill. The aim of this prospective study was to investigate which modifiable family and home environment factors in the early years predict children's FMS at age five. METHODS Mothers from the Melbourne InFANT program (registered with the International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number Register (ISRCTN81847050)) completed questionnaires when child was aged 4, 9, 19 months old, and 3.5 years old on factors hypothesised to predict motor skills. Some factors were grouped in tertiles (high, medium, low) due to the nature of the distribution. At 5 years old children were assessed on 6 locomotor and 6 object control skills (Test of Gross Motor Development-2). Eight regression models examined the association between factors at each time-point and children's skills (object control and locomotor) at 5 years old. RESULTS The sample varied by time-point (178 to 259 children). Maternal physical activity optimism (4 months; β = 2.43), home physical activity equipment (9 months; β = 0.82), time outdoors - middle (9 months; β = 2.50) and highest tertile (9 months; β = 2.86), time free to move about - highest tertile (19 months; β = 2.41), time with older children - middle (19 months; β = 3.15) and highest tertile (3.5 years; β = 3.00) were predictive of better locomotor scores. Mothers' own physical activity (9 months; β = - 0.01) and time active with mum - highest tertile (3.5 years; β = - 3.73) were negatively associated with locomotor skill. Time with older children - highest (4 months; β = 2.27) and middle tertile (19 months; β = 2.97), time free to move about - middle (19 months; β = 2.55) and highest tertile (19 months; β = 2.47), and more home equipment (9 months; β = 0.83); (3.5 years; β = 0.17) were predictive of better object control skills. Maternal physical activity knowledge (3.5 years; β = - 3.05) was negatively associated with object control skill. CONCLUSIONS Providing a supportive environment with older children and equipment, and allowing toddlers' freedom to move, appears important. Opportunities exist to educate parents on their important role in developing children's motor skills. Clinicians could advise parents that the home environment can make a difference to their child's FMS starting from infancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Barnett
- Institute of Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, 3125, Australia.
- School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, 3125, Australia.
| | - Jill A Hnatiuk
- Institute of Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, 3125, Australia
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3125, Australia
| | - Jo Salmon
- Institute of Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, 3125, Australia
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3125, Australia
| | - Kylie D Hesketh
- Institute of Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, 3125, Australia
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, 3125, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Prado EL, Larson LM, Cox K, Bettencourt K, Kubes JN, Shankar AH. Do effects of early life interventions on linear growth correspond to effects on neurobehavioural development? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet Glob Health 2019; 7:e1398-e1413. [PMID: 31537370 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(19)30361-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 07/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Faltering in linear growth and neurobehavioural development during early childhood are often assumed to have common causes because of their consistent association. This notion has contributed to a global focus on the promotion of nutrition during pregnancy and childhood to improve both conditions. Our aim was to assess whether effects of interventions on linear growth are associated with effects on developmental scores and to quantify these associations. METHODS In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we included randomised trials done during pregnancy and in children aged 0-5 years that reported effects of any intervention on length-for-age or height-for-age Z scores (LAZ or HAZ) and on any of the following outcomes: motor, cognitive or mental, language, and social-emotional or behavioural development. We searched MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO), and PsycINFO (EBSCO) from database inception to June 25, 2019. Study-level data were extracted and, when required, authors were contacted for missing information. We calculated weighted meta-regression coefficients of the association between standardised effect sizes of interventions on LAZ or HAZ and developmental outcome scores and calculated pooled effect sizes for different types of intervention. FINDINGS Of the 7207 studies identified, we included 75 studies with 122 comparisons between intervention and control groups and outcomes reported for 72 275 children. Across all interventions, effect sizes on LAZ or HAZ were significantly associated with effect sizes on social-emotional scores (β 0·23, 95% CI 0·05 to 0·41; p=0·02), but not on cognitive (0·18, -0·36 to 0·72; p=0·51), language (0·12, -0·07 to 0·31; p=0·21), or motor development scores (0·23, -0·05 to 0·50; p=0·11). In studies that provided nutritional supplements, we observed positive significant pooled effect sizes on all five outcomes of LAZ or HAZ (effect size 0·05, 95% CI 0·01-0·09; p=0·01; n=50), cognitive or mental (0·06, 0·03-0·10; p<0·01; n=38), language (0·08, 0·03-0·13; p=0·01; n=21), motor (0·08, 0·04-0·12; p<0·01; n=41), and social-emotional (0·07, 0·02-0·12; p=0·01; n=20) scores. The effect sizes of nutritional supplementation on LAZ or HAZ scores were significantly associated with effect sizes on cognitive (β 0·40, 95% CI 0·04-0·77; p=0·049) and motor (0·43, 0·11-0·75; p=0·01) scores. In the 14 interventions promoting responsive care and learning opportunities, the pooled effect size on LAZ or HAZ score was not significant (-0·01, 95% CI -0·07 to 0·05; p=0·74), but pooled effect sizes on cognitive, language, and motor scores were 4 to 5 times larger (range 0·38-0·48) than the pooled effect sizes of nutritional supplementation (0·05-0·08). INTERPRETATION In nutritional supplementation interventions, improvements in linear growth were associated with small improvements in child development, whereas nurturing and stimulation interventions had significant effects on child development but no effects on linear growth. The determinants of linear growth and neurodevelopment are only partly shared. To nurture thriving individuals and communities, interventions should specifically target determinants of neurodevelopment and not simply linear growth. FUNDING University of California Davis, US Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth L Prado
- Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Leila M Larson
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Katherine Cox
- Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Kory Bettencourt
- Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Julianne N Kubes
- Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Anuraj H Shankar
- Eijkman-Oxford Clinical Research Unit, Eijkman Institute for Molecular Biology, Jakarta, Indonesia; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Olney DK, Leroy JL, Bliznashka L, Ruel MT. A Multisectoral Food-Assisted Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition Program Targeted to Women and Children in the First 1000 Days Increases Attainment of Language and Motor Milestones among Young Burundian Children. J Nutr 2019; 149:1833-1842. [PMID: 31268132 PMCID: PMC6768810 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxz133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Child development is affected by multiple factors throughout pregnancy and childhood. Multisectoral programs addressing these factors may improve children's development. OBJECTIVE We evaluated the impact of a food-assisted multisectoral nutrition program (Tubaramure) on children's (4-41.9 mo) motor and language development. Tubaramure was targeted to Burundian women and children in the first 1000 d and provided micronutrient-fortified food rations; nutrition, health, and hygiene behavior change communication; and health system-strengthening activities. METHODS Program impact was assessed using a cluster-randomized controlled trial with repeated cross-sections: 2010 (baseline, children 4-41.9 mo), 2012 (follow-up during implementation, children 4-23.9 mo), and 2014 (follow-up postimplementation, children 24-41.9 mo). Sixty villages were randomly assigned to 4 groups with varying timing and duration of food rations: pregnancy-24 mo; pregnancy-18 mo; 0-24 mo; and control, no direct Tubaramure benefits. Treatment groups were pooled and compared with control using difference-in-difference estimates. We examined impact pathways by assessing program impacts on intermediary variables and their associations with development outcomes. RESULTS At first follow-up, Tubaramure positively affected language (0.4 milestones, P < 0.05) but not motor development among children aged 4-23.9 mo. Among the 12-23.9 mo age subgroup, the program positively affected language (0.7 milestones, P < 0.01) and motor (0.6 milestones, P = 0.08) development. At second follow-up, among children aged 24-41.9 mo, Tubaramure marginally affected motor development (0.4 milestones, P = 0.09). In age subgroup analyses, program impacts were limited to children aged 24-29.9 mo [0.4 motor (P = 0.09) and 1.0 language (P < 0.01) milestones]. Pathway analyses revealed significant positive impacts on diet, health, and nutritional indicators of children aged 12-23.9 mo and health and nutritional indicators of children aged 24-29.9 mo, supporting the plausibility of program impacts on child development. CONCLUSIONS Tubaramure had small positive impacts on children's motor and language development through multiple pathways, demonstrating the role multisectoral nutrition programs can play in improving children's development. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01072279.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deanna K Olney
- Poverty, Health, and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jef L Leroy
- Poverty, Health, and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lilia Bliznashka
- Poverty, Health, and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Marie T Ruel
- Poverty, Health, and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Thorne-Lyman AL, Shrestha M, Fawzi WW, Pasqualino M, Strand TA, Kvestad I, Hysing M, Joshi N, Lohani M, Miller LC. Dietary Diversity and Child Development in the Far West of Nepal: A Cohort Study. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11081799. [PMID: 31382653 PMCID: PMC6722734 DOI: 10.3390/nu11081799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Poverty adversely affects child development through multiple pathways in low- and middle-income countries. Relationships between diet and child development are poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to explore these associations in a longitudinal cohort of 305 children in rural Nepal (baseline mean age 14 months), evaluating dietary diversity and the consumption of specific food groups at three timepoints over 1.5 years. Child development was assessed using the Ages and Stages questionnaire-version 3 (ASQ-3). Associations between the number of days that children consumed minimum dietary diversity (MDD) (≥4/8 items) and specific food groups over time (range 0–3) and total and subscale ASQ scores at age 23–38 months were estimated using multiple linear and logistic regression, dichotomizing scores at the lowest quartile. After adjusting for confounders, each additional day of consuming MDD was associated with a 35% reduction in the odds of low total ASQ score [OR 0.65, 95% CI (0.46, 0.92)]. The consumption of animal source foods [OR 0.64, (0.46, 0.89)], and vegetables/fruits [OR 0.60, (0.41, 0.90), but not processed foods [OR 0.99, (0.62, 1.59)] was associated with lower odds of low total development. Vegetables, fruits and animal source foods may be important for child development in this setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew L Thorne-Lyman
- Center for Human Nutrition, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Room E2545, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Merina Shrestha
- Department of Child Health, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Wafaie W Fawzi
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 665 Huntington Avenue, Building 1 Room 1108, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Monica Pasqualino
- Center for Human Nutrition, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Room E2545, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Tor A Strand
- Division for Research, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Lillehammer, Norway and The Center for International Health, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ingrid Kvestad
- Regional Center for Child and Youth Mental Health and Child Welfare, NORCE Norwegian Research Center, Bergen, Norway
| | - Mari Hysing
- Department of Psychosocial Science, Faculty of Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Neena Joshi
- Heifer International, Satobato Road, Hattiban, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Mahendra Lohani
- Heifer International, 1 World Ave, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA
| | - Laurie C Miller
- Tufts University School of Medicine, 800 Washington St, Boston, MD 02111, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
McCormick BJJ, Richard SA, Caulfield LE, Pendergast LL, Seidman JC, Koshy B, Roshan R, Shrestha R, Svensen E, Blacy L, Rasmussen Z, Maphula A, Scharf R, Nahar B, Haque S, Rasheed M, Oria R, Rogawski ET, Murray-Kolb LE. Early Life Child Micronutrient Status, Maternal Reasoning, and a Nurturing Household Environment have Persistent Influences on Child Cognitive Development at Age 5 years: Results from MAL-ED. J Nutr 2019; 149:1460-1469. [PMID: 31162601 PMCID: PMC6686051 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxz055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Child cognitive development is influenced by early-life insults and protective factors. To what extent these factors have a long-term legacy on child development and hence fulfillment of cognitive potential is unknown. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine the relation between early-life factors (birth to 2 y) and cognitive development at 5 y. METHODS Observational follow-up visits were made of children at 5 y, previously enrolled in the community-based MAL-ED longitudinal cohort. The burden of enteropathogens, prevalence of illness, complementary diet intake, micronutrient status, and household and maternal factors from birth to 2 y were extensively measured and their relation with the Wechsler Preschool Primary Scales of Intelligence at 5 y was examined through use of linear regression. RESULTS Cognitive T-scores from 813 of 1198 (68%) children were examined and 5 variables had significant associations in multivariable models: mean child plasma transferrin receptor concentration (β: -1.81, 95% CI: -2.75, -0.86), number of years of maternal education (β: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.08, 0.45), maternal cognitive reasoning score (β: 0.09, 95% CI: 0.03, 0.15), household assets score (β: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.24, 1.04), and HOME child cleanliness factor (β: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.05, 1.15). In multivariable models, the mean rate of enteropathogen detections, burden of illness, and complementary food intakes between birth and 2 y were not significantly related to 5-y cognition. CONCLUSIONS A nurturing home context in terms of a healthy/clean environment and household wealth, provision of adequate micronutrients, maternal education, and cognitive reasoning have a strong and persistent influence on child cognitive development. Efforts addressing aspects of poverty around micronutrient status, nurturing caregiving, and enabling home environments are likely to have lasting positive impacts on child cognitive development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jessica C Seidman
- Fogarty International Center/National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Zeba Rasmussen
- Fogarty International Center/National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Prado EL, Shankar AH, Stein AD, Larson LM. Does Improved Growth Mean Improved Neurobehavioral Development? Adv Nutr 2019; 10:725-726. [PMID: 31041450 PMCID: PMC6628846 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmy126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth L Prado
- Department of Nutrition, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA,Address correspondence to ELP (e-mail: )
| | - Anuraj H Shankar
- Department of Nutrition, T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Aryeh D Stein
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Leila M Larson
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia (LML)
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Larson LM, Kubes JN, Ramírez‐Luzuriaga MJ, Khishen S, H. Shankar A, Prado EL. Effects of increased hemoglobin on child growth, development, and disease: a systematic review and meta‐analysis. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2019; 1450:83-104. [DOI: 10.1111/nyas.14105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Revised: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Maria J. Ramírez‐Luzuriaga
- Doctoral Program in Nutrition and Health Sciences, Laney Graduate SchoolEmory University Atlanta Georgia
| | - Sarah Khishen
- Department of Public Health SciencesUniversity of California – Davis Davis California
| | - Anuraj H. Shankar
- Eijkman‐Oxford Clinical Research UnitEijkman Institute for Molecular Biology Jakarta Indonesia
- The Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of MedicineUniversity of Oxford Oxford United Kingdom
| | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Child development in the context of biological and psychosocial hazards among poor families in Bangladesh. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0215304. [PMID: 31059509 PMCID: PMC6502452 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0215304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well established that low resource environments early in life can predispose children to adverse health and compromised developmental outcomes. We explore possible mechanistic pathways underlying poor developmental outcomes in children growing up in a low resource setting in urban Bangladesh. We tested associations between psychosocial risks, namely maternal distress and poor caregiving experiences, and biological risks, namely poor growth (HAZ) and inflammation (C-reactive protein: CRP), and children’s developmental outcomes. Child development was measured using the Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL) at 6 and 27 months in one cohort, and using the MSEL and Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence (WPPSI) at 36 and 60 months respectively in another cohort. In the younger cohort, we found that more inflammation (estimated by the child’s CRP level at four months) predicted lower receptive language scores at 6 months, while more frequent caregiving interactions predicted higher receptive language scores at 6 months. In the older cohort, we found that at 27 months, a child’s growth measured by his or her current HAZ was positively associated with gross motor, visual reception, receptive language, and expressive language scores. In the oldest cohort, we found that higher HAZ and more frequent stimulating activities in the home predicted higher motor and language scores, whereas more inflammation (as estimated by CRP over the first two years of life) predicted lower motor scores at 36 months. At 60 months, we found that HAZ and caregiving experiences were positively associated with verbal IQ, whereas inflammation was negatively associated with verbal IQ. This work identifies malnutrition, inflammation, and caregiving as potential sites of intervention to improve neurodevelopment in children growing up in global poverty.
Collapse
|
42
|
Araujo DM, Santos DCC, Lima MCMP. Home environment of infants with risk indicators for hearing loss tends to be less stimulating. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2019; 120:146-151. [PMID: 30797111 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2019.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To verify the home opportunities to the motor development offered to infants with and without risk indicators for hearing loss (RIHL). METHODS Observational transversal study was done with infants between 8 and 10 months, being 77 with RIHL (Study Group-SG) and 77 without RIHL (Control Group-CG) The instrument used to characterize the sample and obtain information about the home affordances was the questionnaire Affordances in the Home Environment for the Motor Development - Infant Scale (AHEMD-IS). The results of the AHEMD-IS between the groups were compared using the Mann-Whitney and Chi-Squared tests. The significance test adopted for the study was 5%. RESULTS Absolute values in the frequency of homes considered "moderately adequate" and "less than adequate" were greater in the SG in the most part of the categories, except the item Toys for Fine Motricity. It was possible to observe a statistically significant difference in the Total Score of the groups (p-value = 0.01346). Even with better results when compared with the SG, the number of homes of the CG group with affordances below expected is more than half of the sample. CONCLUSIONS It was possible to verify that home of infants with risk indicators for hearing loss have statistically less affordances when compared to the homes of infants without the indicators. The results alert us to the need of orientation to the infant's responsible/caretakers regarding to the importance of a favorable environment with stimulation of the infant motor development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Denise Castilho Cabrera Santos
- Human Movement Sciences Graduate Program, FACIS/Unimep, Av. Alexandre Cazelato, 61, House: 67, 13148-218, Paulínia, SP, Brazil.
| | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
A systematic literature review of the relation between iron status/anemia in pregnancy and offspring neurodevelopment. Eur J Clin Nutr 2019; 73:1561-1578. [PMID: 30783211 DOI: 10.1038/s41430-019-0400-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The fetal brain starts developing early and animal studies have suggested that iron plays several roles for the development, but results from epidemiological studies investigating associations between gestational iron and offspring neurodevelopment are inconsistent. OBJECTIVE To systematically examine results from observational studies and RCTs on gestational iron and offspring neurodevelopment, with focus on the importance of four domains: iron status indicators, exposure timing, neurodevelopmental outcomes, and offspring age. METHODS PRISMA guidelines were followed. Embase, PsychInfo, Scopus, and The Cochrane library were searched in September 2017 and February 2018. Overall, 3307 articles were identified and 108 retrieved for full-text assessment. Pre-specified eligibility criteria were used to select studies and 27 articles were included;19 observational and 8 RCTs. RESULTS Iron status in pregnancy was associated with offspring behavior, cognition, and academic achievement. The direction of associations with behavioral outcomes were unclear and the conclusions related to cognition and academic achievement were based on few studies, only. Little evidence was found for associations with motor development. Observed associations were shown to persist beyond infancy into adolescence, and results depended on iron status indicator type but not on the timing of exposure. CONCLUSION We conclude that there is some evidence that low pregnancy iron, possibly particularly in the 3rd trimester, may be associated with adverse offspring neurodevelopment. As most previous research used Hemoglobin, inferring results to iron deficiency should be done with caution. No conclusions could be reached regarding associations beyond early childhood, and supplementation with iron during pregnancy did not seem to influence offspring neurodevelopment.
Collapse
|
44
|
Smuts CM, Matsungo TM, Malan L, Kruger HS, Rothman M, Kvalsvig JD, Covic N, Joosten K, Osendarp SJM, Bruins MJ, Frenken LGJ, Lombard CJ, Faber M. Effect of small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements on growth, psychomotor development, iron status, and morbidity among 6- to 12-mo-old infants in South Africa: a randomized controlled trial. Am J Clin Nutr 2019; 109:55-68. [PMID: 30649163 PMCID: PMC6358035 DOI: 10.1093/ajcn/nqy282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Evidence on the effect of small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements (SQ-LNSs) on early child growth and development is mixed. Objective This study assessed the effect of daily consumption of 2 different SQ-LNS formulations on linear growth (primary outcome), psychomotor development, iron status (secondary outcomes), and morbidity in infants from age 6 to 12 mo within the context of a maize-based complementary diet. Methods Infants (n = 750) were randomly assigned to receive SQ-LNS, SQ-LNS-plus, or no supplement. Both SQ-LNS products contained micronutrients and essential fatty acids. SQ-LNS-plus contained, in addition, docosahexaenoic acid, arachidonic acid (important for brain and eye development), lysine (limiting amino acid in maize), phytase (enhances iron absorption), and other nutrients. Infants' weight and length were measured bimonthly. At age 6 and 12 mo, psychomotor development using the Kilifi Developmental Inventory and South African Parent Rating Scale and hemoglobin, plasma ferritin, C-reactive protein, and α1-acid glycoprotein were assessed. WHO Motor Milestone outcomes, adherence, and morbidity were monitored weekly through home visits. Primary analysis was by intention-to-treat, comparing each SQ-LNS group with the control. Results SQ-LNS-plus had a positive effect on length-for-age zscore at age 8 mo (mean difference: 0.11; 95% CI: 0.01, 0.22; P = 0.032) and 10 mo (0.16; 95% CI: 0.04, 0.27; P = 0.008) but not at 12 mo (0.09; 95% CI: -0.02, 0.21; P = 0.115), locomotor development score (2.05; 95% CI: 0.72, 3.38; P = 0.003), and Parent Rating Score (1.10; 95% CI: 0.14, 2.07; P = 0.025), but no effect for weight-for-age zscore. Both SQ-LNS (P = 0.027) and SQ-LNS-plus (P = 0.005) improved hemoglobin concentration and reduced the risk of anemia, iron deficiency, and iron-deficiency anemia. Both SQ-LNS products reduced longitudinal prevalence of fever, coughing, and wheezing but increased incidence and longitudinal prevalence of diarrhea, vomiting, and rash/sores. Conclusions Point-of-use fortification with SQ-LNS-plus showed an early transient effect on linear growth and improved locomotor development. Both SQ-LNS products had positive impacts on anemia and iron status. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01845610.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cornelius M Smuts
- Center of Excellence for Nutrition, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa,Address correspondence to CMS (e-mail: )
| | - Tonderayi M Matsungo
- Center of Excellence for Nutrition, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Linda Malan
- Center of Excellence for Nutrition, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Herculina S Kruger
- Center of Excellence for Nutrition, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Marinel Rothman
- Center of Excellence for Nutrition, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Jane D Kvalsvig
- Department of Public Health Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Namukolo Covic
- Center of Excellence for Nutrition, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Karen Joosten
- Center of Excellence for Nutrition, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | | | | | | | - Carl J Lombard
- Center of Excellence for Nutrition, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa,Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Mieke Faber
- Center of Excellence for Nutrition, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa,Non-Communicable Diseases Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Wessells KR, Brown KH, Kounnavong S, Barffour MA, Hinnouho GM, Sayasone S, Stephensen CB, Ratsavong K, Larson CP, Arnold CD, Harding KB, Reinhart GA, Lertmemongkolchai G, Fucharoen S, Bernstein RM, Hess SY. Comparison of two forms of daily preventive zinc supplementation versus therapeutic zinc supplementation for diarrhea on young children's physical growth and risk of infection: study design and rationale for a randomized controlled trial. BMC Nutr 2018; 4:39. [PMID: 32153900 PMCID: PMC7050875 DOI: 10.1186/s40795-018-0247-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zinc is an essential nutrient that is required for children's normal growth and resistance to infections, including diarrhea and pneumonia, two major causes of child mortality. Daily or weekly preventive zinc supplementation has been shown to improve growth and reduce the risk of infection, while therapeutic zinc supplementation for 10-14 days is recommended for the treatment of diarrhea. The overall objective of the present study is to compare several regimens for delivering zinc to young children, both for the prevention of zinc deficiency and the treatment of diarrhea. METHODS The present study is a community-based, randomized controlled trial in the Lao People's Democratic Republic (PDR). Three thousand, four hundred children 6-23 months of age will be randomized to one of four intervention groups (daily preventive zinc dispersible tablet, daily preventive multiple micronutrient powder, therapeutic zinc dispersible tablet for diarrhea, or placebo control); interventions will be delivered for 9 months and outcomes measured at pre-determined intervals. Primary outcomes include physical growth (length and weight), diarrhea incidence, hemoglobin and micronutrient status, and innate and adaptive immune function. Secondary outcomes include mid-upper-arm circumference, neuro-behavioral development, hair cortisol concentrations, markers of intestinal inflammation and parasite burden. Incidence of adverse events and the modifying effects of inherited hemoglobin disorders and iron status on the response to the intervention will also be examined. We will estimate unadjusted effects and effects adjusted for selected baseline covariates using ANCOVA. DISCUSSION Many countries are now rolling out large-scale programs to include therapeutic zinc supplementation in the treatment of childhood diarrhea, but few have established programs demonstrated to be effective in the prevention of zinc deficiency. This study will address how best to deliver supplemental zinc to prevent zinc deficiency and reduce the severity of diarrhea-related health complications. TRIAL REGISTRATION Trial registration identifier (NCT02428647) ; Date of registration: April 29, 2015.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K. Ryan Wessells
- Program in International and Community Nutrition, Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Kenneth H. Brown
- Program in International and Community Nutrition, Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616 USA
- Nutrition and Global Development, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Sengchanh Kounnavong
- National Institute of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic
| | - Maxwell A. Barffour
- Program in International and Community Nutrition, Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Guy-Marino Hinnouho
- Program in International and Community Nutrition, Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Somphou Sayasone
- National Institute of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic
| | - Charles B. Stephensen
- United States Department of Agriculture, Western Human Nutrition Research Center, Davis, CA USA
| | - Kethmany Ratsavong
- National Institute of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic
| | | | - Charles D. Arnold
- Program in International and Community Nutrition, Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Kimberly B. Harding
- Nutrition International, formerly The Micronutrient Initiative, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Gregory A. Reinhart
- The Mathile Institute for the Advancement of Human Nutrition, Dayton, OH USA
| | - Ganjana Lertmemongkolchai
- Centre for Research and Development of Medical Diagnostics Laboratories, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Supan Fucharoen
- Centre for Research and Development of Medical Diagnostics Laboratories, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | | | - Sonja Y. Hess
- Program in International and Community Nutrition, Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Das JK, Hoodbhoy Z, Salam RA, Bhutta AZ, Valenzuela‐Rubio NG, Weise Prinzo Z, Bhutta ZA. Lipid-based nutrient supplements for maternal, birth, and infant developmental outcomes. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2018; 8:CD012610. [PMID: 30168868 PMCID: PMC6513224 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012610.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ready-to-use lipid-based nutrient supplements (LNS) are a highly nutrient-dense supplement, which could be a good source of macro- and micronutrients for pregnant women who need to supplement their nutrient intake. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of LNS for maternal, birth and infant outcomes in pregnant women. Secondary objectives were to explore the most appropriate composition, frequency and duration of LNS administration. SEARCH METHODS In May 2018, we searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, 22 other databases and two trials registers for any published and ongoing studies. We also checked the reference lists of included studies and relevant reviews, and we contacted the authors of included studies and other experts in the field to identify any studies we may have missed, including any unpublished studies. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs that compared LNS given in pregnancy to no intervention, placebo, iron folic acid (IFA), multiple micronutrients (MMN) or nutritional counselling. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard Cochrane procedures. MAIN RESULTS We included four studies in 8018 pregnant women. All four studies took place in stable community settings in low- and middle-income countries: Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Ghana and Malawi. None were in emergency settings. The oldest trial was published in 2009. Of the four included studies, one compared LNS to IFA, one compared LNS to MMN, and two compared LNS to both IFA and MMN.We considered the included studies to be of medium to high quality, and we rated the quality of the evidence as moderate using the GRADE approach.LNS versus IFAMaternal outcomes: there was no difference between the LNS and IFA groups as regards maternal gestational weight gain per week (standard mean difference (SMD) 0.46, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.44 to 1.36; 2 studies, 3539 participants). One study (536 participants) showed a two-fold increase in the prevalence of maternal anaemia in the LNS group compared to the IFA group, but no difference between the groups as regards adverse effects. There was no difference between the two groups for maternal mortality (risk ratio (RR) 0.53, 95% CI 0.12 to 2.41; 3 studies, 5628 participants).Birth and infant outcomes: there was no difference between the LNS and IFA groups for low birth weight (LBW) (RR 0.87, 95% CI 0.72 to 1.05; 3 studies, 4826 participants), though newborns in the LNS group had a slightly higher mean birth weight (mean difference (MD) 53.28 g, 95% CI 28.22 to 78.33; 3 studies, 5077 participants) and birth length (cm) (MD 0.24 cm, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.36; 3 studies, 4986 participants). There was a reduction in the proportion of infants who were small for gestational age (SGA) (RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.89 to 0.99; 3 studies, 4823 participants) and had newborn stunting (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.71 to 0.94; 2 studies, 4166 participants) in the LNS group, but no difference between the LNS and IFA groups for preterm delivery (RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.80 to 1.11; 4 studies, 4924 participants), stillbirth (RR 1.14; 95% CI 0.52 to 2.48; 3 studies, 5575 participants) or neonatal death (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.14 to 6.51). The current evidence for child developmental outcomes is not sufficient to draw any firm conclusions.LNS versus MMNMaternal outcomes: one study (662 participants) showed no difference between the LNS and MMN groups as regards gestational weight gain per week or adverse effects. Another study (557 participants) showed an increased risk of maternal anaemia in the LNS group compared to the MMN group.Birth and infant outcomes: there was no difference between the LNS and MMN groups for LBW (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.74 to 1.14; 3 studies, 2404 participants), birth weight (MD 23.67 g, 95% CI -10.53 to 57.86; 3 studies, 2573 participants), birth length (MD 0.20 cm, 95% CI -0.02 to 0.42; 3 studies, 2567 participants), SGA (RR 0.95, 95% CI 0.84 to 1.07; 3 studies, 2393 participants), preterm delivery (RR 1.15, 95% CI 0.93 to 1.42; 3 studies, 2630 participants), head circumference z score (MD 0.10, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.21; 2 studies, 1549 participants) or neonatal death (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.36 to 2.15; 1 study, 1175 participants). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Findings from this review suggest that LNS supplementation has a slight, positive effect on weight at birth, length at birth, SGA and newborn stunting compared to IFA. LNS and MMN were comparable for all maternal, birth and infant outcomes. Both IFA and MMN were better at reducing maternal anaemia when compared to LNS. We did not find any trials for LNS given to pregnant women in emergency settings.Readers should interpret the beneficial findings of the review with caution since the evidence comes from a small number of trials, with one-large scale study (conducted in community settings in Bangladesh) driving most of the impact. In addition, effect sizes are too small to propose any concrete recommendation for practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jai K Das
- Aga Khan University HospitalDivision of Women and Child HealthStadium RoadPO Box 3500KarachiSindPakistan
| | - Zahra Hoodbhoy
- Aga Khan University HospitalDivision of Women and Child HealthStadium RoadPO Box 3500KarachiSindPakistan
| | - Rehana A Salam
- Aga Khan University HospitalDivision of Women and Child HealthStadium RoadPO Box 3500KarachiSindPakistan
| | | | - Nancy G Valenzuela‐Rubio
- Autonomous University of SinaloaSchool of Nutrition and GastronomyPuerto Ensenada Ave. 1783Nuevo CuliacanCuliacanSinaloaMexico80170
- Mexican Association for Nutrition and Health ResearchCuliacanMexico
| | - Zita Weise Prinzo
- World Health OrganizationDepartment of Nutrition for Health and DevelopmentAvenue Appia 20GenevaGESwitzerland1211
| | - Zulfiqar A Bhutta
- The Hospital for Sick ChildrenCentre for Global Child HealthTorontoONCanadaM5G A04
- Aga Khan University HospitalCentre for Excellence in Women and Child HealthStadium RoadPO Box 3500KarachiPakistan74800
| | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Khandan S, Riazi H, Amir Ali Akbari S, Nasiri M, Montazeri A. Adaptation to maternal role and infant development: a cross sectional study. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2018; 36:289-301. [PMID: 29546769 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2018.1437895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the correlation between adaptation to maternal role (AMR) and infant development. BACKGROUND Maternal role is an important key in infant's care and development. Previous findings demonstrated an inconsistency in the effect of the mother's adaptation on each domain of infant's development. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted on 260 healthy mothers and healthy infants attending health centres affiliated to Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in Tehran in 2016. Data were collected using the 'AMR in Iranian Primiparous Women Questionnaire' and the 'Ages and Stages Questionnaire' (ASQ). The correlation between adaptation to maternal role and infant development was assessed using partial correlation analysis adjusted for age and gender. RESULTS In all 14 infants had developmental delay giving a prevalence rate of 5.4%. The mean AMR score was 123.9 (SD =13.1) and there was no significant correlation between the AMR total score and infant development (r = 0.06, p = 0.27). However, significant correlation were observed between some aspects of adaptation to maternal role and infant development such as the 'support and consolidation of the couple's relationship' and 'communication' (p = 0.04); the 'concern and anxiety' subscale and 'gross motor skills' (p = 0.03), the 'attachment to the child' subscale and 'personal-social development' (p = 0.02) and the 'emotional development' subscale with 'personal-social development' domain (p = 0.004). CONCLUSION The findings suggest that correlation exists between some aspects of adaptation to maternal role and infant development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samine Khandan
- a School of Nursing and Midwifery , Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Hedyeh Riazi
- b Department of Midwifery and Reproductive Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery , Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Sedigheh Amir Ali Akbari
- b Department of Midwifery and Reproductive Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery , Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Malihe Nasiri
- a School of Nursing and Midwifery , Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Ali Montazeri
- c Iranian Institute for Health Sciences Research , Tehran , Iran.,d Population Health Research Group, Health Metrics Research Center , Iranian Institute for Health Sciences Research, ACECR , Tehran , Iran
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Larson LM, Martorell R, Bauer PJ. A Path Analysis of Nutrition, Stimulation, and Child Development Among Young Children in Bihar, India. Child Dev 2018. [PMID: 29529358 PMCID: PMC6174960 DOI: 10.1111/cdev.13057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Nutrition plays an important role in the development of a child, particularly in low‐ and middle‐income countries where malnutrition is often widespread. The relation between diet, hemoglobin, nutritional status, motor development, stimulation and mental development was examined in a cross‐sectional sample of 1,079 children 12–18 months of age living in rural Bihar, India. Path analysis revealed associations between (a) length‐for‐age z‐scores and motor development, standardized β (β) = .285, p < .001, and (b) motor and all mental development outcomes (language: β = .422; personal‐social: β = .490; memory: β = .139; and executive function: β = .072, all p < .001). Additionally, stimulation was significantly associated with language scores and hemoglobin concentration with memory. These findings inform interventions aimed at improving child development in Northern India.
Collapse
|
49
|
Ahun MN, Aboud FE, Aryeetey R, Colecraft E, Marquis GS. Child development in rural Ghana: Associations between cognitive/language milestones and indicators of nutrition and stimulation of children under two years of age. Canadian Journal of Public Health 2018; 108:e578-e585. [PMID: 29356667 DOI: 10.17269/cjph.108.5875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 09/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Two studies aimed to assess the provision of nutrition and psychosocial stimulation in the home and to examine associations between mental development and nutrition and stimulation using a validated measure of development milestones. METHODS The first study consisted of secondary analyses on health and nutrition data from 1081 mother-child pairs (the children aged 0-12 months) and their households in Ghana's Eastern Region. For the second study, the Ghana Milestones Measure, consisting of items assessing cognitive and language development, was used to assess child development in a subsample (N = 330) of Study 1 participants one year later (children 10-24 months of age). This measure was mother-reported and had been validated in a separate community in Ghana. Correlation and linear regression analyses were used to analyze the data. RESULTS Family assets and maternal education were identified as key factors of the family context. Both variables were positively associated with preventive health practices (r = 0.08 to 0.13, p < 0.0001 to 0.01), and dietary diversity (r = 0.15, p = 0.0001 to 0.0006), and negatively associated with maternal depressive symptoms (r = -0.19 to -0.12, p < 0.0001). Taller children had higher receptive (standardized beta = 0.16; p = 0.04) and expressive (0.21; 0.003) language, but not cognitive (0.15; 0.07) milestone scores, and psychosocial stimulation was positively associated with all three milestones (receptive = 0.13, p = 0.01; expressive = 0.21, p < 0.0001; and cognitive = 0.24, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION Our study provides the first validated measure of children's language and cognitive development in Ghana, finding associations with nutrition and stimulation. The Ghana Milestones Measure can be used to assess and help promote children's mental development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marilyn N Ahun
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, QC (at time of study; currently a PhD candidate, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC).
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Reynolds SA, Andersen C, Behrman J, Singh A, Stein AD, Benny L, Crookston BT, Cueto S, Dearden K, Georgiadis A, Krutikova S, Fernald LC. Disparities in children's vocabulary and height in relation to household wealth and parental schooling: A longitudinal study in four low- and middle-income countries. SSM Popul Health 2017; 3:767-786. [PMID: 29302614 PMCID: PMC5742640 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2017.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Revised: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Children from low socio-economic status (SES) households often demonstrate worse growth and developmental outcomes than wealthier children, in part because poor children face a broader range of risk factors. It is difficult to characterize the trajectories of SES disparities in low- and middle-income countries because longitudinal data are infrequently available. We analyze measures of children's linear growth (height) at ages 1, 5, 8 and 12y and receptive language (Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test) at ages 5, 8 and 12y in Ethiopia, India, Peru and Vietnam in relation to household SES, measured by parental schooling or household assets. We calculate children's percentile ranks within the distributions of height-for-age z-scores and of age- and language-standardized receptive vocabulary scores. We find that children in the top quartile of household SES are taller and have better language performance than children in the bottom quartile; differences in vocabulary scores between children with high and low SES are larger than differences in the height measure. For height, disparities in SES are present by age 1y and persist as children age. For vocabulary, SES disparities also emerge early in life, but patterns are not consistent across age; for example, SES disparities are constant over time in India, widen between 5 and 12y in Ethiopia, and narrow in this age range in Vietnam and Peru. Household characteristics (such as mother's height, age, and ethnicity), and community fixed effects explain most of the disparities in height and around half of the disparities in vocabulary. We also find evidence that SES disparities in height and language development may not be fixed over time, suggesting opportunities for policy and programs to address these gaps early in life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Reynolds
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Chris Andersen
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jere Behrman
- School of Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Aryeh D. Stein
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Liza Benny
- Young Lives, Department of International Development, University of Oxford, UK
| | | | - Santiago Cueto
- Group for the Analysis of Development and Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, Lima, Peru
| | | | - Andreas Georgiadis
- Young Lives, Department of International Development, University of Oxford, UK
| | | | - Lia C.H. Fernald
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|