Anthropometric assessment of children with un-operated congenital heart disease presenting at Faisalabad Institute of Cardiology, Faisalabad.

Abstract

Objective: To assess the anthropometric and nutritional status of children with un-operated congenital heart disease. Study Design: Prospective, Cross-sectional study. Setting: Pediatric Cardiology Department of Faisalabad Institute of Cardiology (FIC). Period: July 2025 to December 2025. Methods: 355 children (6 months to 10 years of age) having an echocardiographic confirmed diagnosis of CHD. Anthropometric measurements including mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), body mass index (BMI), weight-for-age, height-for-age, and weight-for-height were recorded by standard technique and nutritional status assessed. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 22, with p value <0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Of 355 participants, 53% were female (n=188). The largest age group was 2-5 years (42.8%, n=152). Cyanotic CHD was present in 20.6% (n=73) while remainder had acyanotic CHD. Overall, 85.9% of study subjects were malnourished. Malnutrition was seen in 89% of Cyanotic CHD (n=65) children while 85.1% of acyanotic CHD were malnourished (n=240). BMI was significantly lower in cyanotic patients (p=0.03). Height-for-age and weight-for-height also showed significant differences (p=0.04 and p=0.03, respectively), with cyanotic patients showing greater stunting and wasting. Weight-for-age did not differ significantly (p=0.06). Conclusion: Children with cyanotic CHD exhibit more severe malnutrition than those with acyanotic CHD. Early nutritional screening and targeted interventions are crucial to improve growth and reduce complications in this vulnerable population.