A Comparative Analysis of the Nutritional Status of the Under-fives Based on Underweight and Stunting

Abstract

This study assessed the nutritional status of children under five years old by measuring underweight and stunting in Bolori II, Monguno, and Pulka, Borno State, Northeast Nigeria. The prevalence of underweight is 51.3% in Monguno and 33.7% in Pulka. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) severity thresholds (<10% low, 10–<20% medium, 20–<30% high, and ≥30% very high), severe underweight in Monguno is classified as high (24.6%), while Pulka is categorized as medium (11.7%). Severe stunting remains a significant concern, with rates of 22.9% in Bolori II, 30.4% in Monguno, and 25.3% in Pulka. Based on United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and WHO prevalence thresholds, these stunting rates are classified as high in Bolori II and Pulka and very high in Monguno.