was conducted in Dar El Salam in Ombada locality with a total
population of 582 661 living in 52 blocks; the recommended
sample size for the assessment according to households
number was 505 households.
3.2. Sampling procedures
A cross-sectional descriptive study was designed to collect
primary information from households using a scientific
questionnaire. The questionnaire covered demographic data,
birth data, family size, gender, parent's education and
occupation, quality of food eaten by children, number of
meals eaten per day and source of income of the study
population. In addition, physical appearance of people and
their living conditions were observed; interaction between
people and their activities were highly considered.
3.3. Anthropometric measurement
Anthropometric measurements (mid-upper arm circumfer-
ence – MUAC, weight and length/height) were carried
out according to the nutrition guidelines method (MSF14,
Gibson15).
3.4. Body weight
Body weight was measured using a hanging baby scale with a
15 g capacity (mechanical baby hanging scale, capacity up to
15 kg or 25 kg SECA310) for children unable to stand. While for
older children a mechanical dial weighing scale, made in
Japan, with capacity of 130 kg was used. All children were
weighed with light clothing, without shoes, to the nearest
0.1 kg; measurements were double-checked. The scales were
checked for accuracy before starting the survey and after, and
then rechecked periodically.
3.5. Length/height
Heights/lengths were carefully measured using an inelastic
measuring tape to the nearest 0.1 cm. Children older than 24
months (height more or equal to 85 cm) were measured while
standing, and those less than 24 months or less than 85 cm
height were measured while lying down.
3.6. Mid-upper arm circumference
MUAC was measured in centimeters using children's (shakir
insertion) and was recorded to the near 0.1 cm. The measure-
ment was taken on the left arm, at the middle point between
the elbow and the shoulder while the arm was relaxed.
3.7. Age
Age was recorded using Medecines' Sans Frontieres method; if
birth dates have been recorded on a health card or immunization
card, determination of age is simple. In such cases, the
date of birth is directly recorded onto the questionnaire in
order to avoid mistakes in calculating the age. If birth dates are
not recorded, a local calendar of events is used. The mother is
asked whether the child was born before or after certain major