Tuberculosis as a Predicator of Childhood Malnutrition in Sindh, Pakistan

Abstract

Objective: To assess the prevalence and identify risk factors associated with Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection 
in Sindh, Pakistan. 
Study Design: Quantitative and cross-sectional study. 
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Department of Pulmonology, and Department of 
Biochemistry Ghulam Muhammad Mahar Medical College, Sukkur from January 2016 to May, 2019. 
Materials and Methods: Diagnosis of TB was performed by AFB smear and X-ray chest. For the screening of 
malnutrition, blood sample were collected and Total Protein, Albumin and A/G ratio were analyzed. Body Mass 
Index (BMI) were estimated by analyzing data from questioners. 
Results: Overall 170 children were recruited in this studu, 81 were male and 89 were female. It was estimated that 
13% children were infected eithTuberculosis every each year. Malnutrition was highly prevalent in TB infected 
children. 
Conclusion: This seems to be a relationship between malnutrition and an increased risk of TB in children belong to 
remote areas of Sindh, Pakistan.