Abstract
Acute malnutrition among children under five remains a major cause of
morbidity and mortality in low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria.
Early detection is essential for effective intervention. This study assessed the
prevalence and determinants of acute malnutrition among under-five children in
Esan West Local Government Area, Edo State. A community-based cross-
sectional study was conducted among 296 randomly selected children aged 24–
59 months and their mothers. Sociodemographic, health, and nutritional data
were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Child
nutritional status was assessed using mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC),
while maternal status was assessed using body mass index (BMI). Data were
analyzed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics were presented as
frequencies and percentages, and associations were examined using Chi-square
tests at a 5% significance level. The prevalence of acute malnutrition among
under-five children was 10.5%, comprising 2.7% severe acute malnutrition and
7.8% moderate acute malnutrition. Significant maternal determinants included
maternal age (p = 0.026), marital status (p = 0.036), and maternal BMI (p =
0.018). Significant child-related determinants included sex (p = 0.035), preterm
birth (p = 0.019), and low birth weight (p = 0.041). Acute malnutrition remains
a significant health concern in Esan West LGA, affecting more than one in ten
under-five children. Factors associated with this acute malnutrition include
maternal age, marital status, and maternal nutritional status, along with child
factors including sex, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Strengthening
maternal nutrition, enhancing antenatal and postnatal care, and addressing early-
life risk factors are essential for reducing malnutrition among under-five children.