Stunting in an Andean community: Prevalence and etiology.

摘要: The magnitude and potential causes of linear growth retardation in a rural agricultural community the Ecuadorian Andes are examined. Growth stunting is common this population, as height-for-age Z-scores (HAZ) for boys girls 1-5 years average -2.2 -2.0, respectively. Dietary analyses suggest multiple nutrient deficiencies. diet appears to be moderately deficient energy, protein, calcium, vitamin A, more severely limiting zinc. Additionally, local water supply household hygiene indicate that risk infection relatively high among population. Of 23 days which quality was monitored, slight Escherichia coli contamination observed on 13 (57%), moderate seen once (4%). Overall, it faltering population reflects synergistic effect mild-to-moderate malnutrition disease. It unlikely alone sufficient explain degree other Andean populations. Rather, stress coping with chronic disease presence may contribute early childhood compromise catch up later life. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 10:229-240, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.