Comparative evaluation of anthropometric indices and risk factors for malnutrition in under-five children at a tertiary care hospital

Background: Malnutrition in under-five children remains a significant public health issue in low- and middle-income countries, including India. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the use of mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) and weight-for-height Z-score (WHZ) to detect acute malnutrition. Aims and Objectives: This study compares the diagnostic accuracy of various anthropometric indices and identifies key risk factors associated with malnutrition. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted over 1 year at Malda Medical College and Hospital among 300 children aged 1–5 years, selected through simple random sampling. Data on sociodemographic and clinical parameters were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements were taken, and nutritional status was assessed using MUAC, MUAC-Z score, WHZ, and the Dugdale index. Receiver operating characteristic analysis, kappa statistics, and Chi-square tests were used to compare indices and assess associations. Results: Malnutrition was significantly associated with low socioeconomic status (SES), incomplete immunization, and higher birth order (P