ABSTRACT
Background: Short stature among school children can have significant implications for their physical and psychological well-being. Understanding its prevalence and etiological profile is crucial for effective intervention strategies. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and etiological factors associated with short stature among school children in Dera Ismail Khan.
Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of short stature and explore its etiological profile among school children in Dera Ismail Khan.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from DECEMBER 2022 to DECEMBER 2023, involving 120 school children aged 6-12 years in Dera Ismail Khan. Height measurements were obtained using standard techniques, and demographic data were collected through structured interviews. Medical history, nutritional status, and familial factors were also assessed.
Results: The prevalence of short stature among school children in Dera Ismail Khan was found to be 18.3%. Etiological factors contributing to short stature included nutritional deficiencies (45.8%), familial short stature (22.5%), endocrine disorders (15.8%), chronic illnesses (10.5%), and genetic syndromes (5.4%).
Conclusion: The study highlights the considerable prevalence of short stature among school children in Dera Ismail Khan, with various etiological factors contributing to its occurrence. Early identification and intervention targeting nutritional, familial, and medical factors are essential for addressing this public health concern.
Keywords: Short stature, prevalence, etiological profile, school children, Dera Ismail Khan.