Factores que influyen en la desnutrición crónica en niños menores de 5 años en ecuador

Abstract

Background: Child malnutrition is a worldwide public health issue acknowledged by the World Health Organization. This issue is prevalent in various Latin American countries, including Ecuador, where children under five years have historically been affected by factors that, despite being studied, continue to generate a significant number of cases of varying complexity, leading to complications. Objective: To evaluate the factors influencing chronic malnutrition in children under five years in Ecuador. Methodology: A descriptive research study with a literature review was conducted. A search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Dialnet, Latindex, Cochrane, Google Scholar, SciELO, Redalyc databases, and papers in English and Spanish published in the last five years, employing specific keywords. Results: In Ecuador, chronic malnutrition affects children under five years old, particularly in provinces such as Esmeraldas, Guayas, Manabí, and Santa Elena. Indigenous populations are the most vulnerable due to factors like poverty and lack of access to nutritious foods. Chronic malnutrition leads to issues that include muscle weakness and growth delays. Treatment aims to ensure that all children have access to proper nutrition and a healthy life.