Caracterización del estado nutricional mediante indicadores antropométricos, bioquímicos, inmunológicos y hematológicos en la población infantil de la parroquia Membrillal

Nutritional status in early childhood is essential for identifying disorders that may affect children's growth, development, and health, especially in rural populations considered vulnerable. A descriptive, cross-sectional design was used, with a sample of twenty infants, using surveys, anthropometric assessments, and laboratory analyses. The variables analyzed included nutritional, anthropometric, biochemical, immunological, and hematological indicators. The predominant age group was three to five years (65%), with an equal distribution by sex, 100% of cases from rural areas, and a high proportion of children not attending school (75%). In terms of nutrition, daily consumption of fruits and vegetables was reported in all households, minimal physical activity of 30 minutes in 95%, and compliance with dietary standards in 90%, although 40% reported consumption of processed meats. From an anthropometric point of view, 90% had an adequate body mass index and 10% were emaciated. In the biochemical analysis, low-density lipoprotein remained normal in 100%, triglycerides in 85%, and low iron was evident in 10%. In hematology, hemoglobin and hematocrit were decreased in 70% and 85%, respectively. The immunological parameters C3 and C4 were within normal ranges. It is concluded that, although the overall nutritional and biochemical profile is acceptable, hematological abnormalities compatible with anemia persist and require timely intervention.