Prevalence of Albumin/Total Protein Deficiency and Micronutrients Correlates in Apparently Healthy Children in Southwest Nigeria

Aim: To assess the prevalence and pattern of total protein, albumin and micronutrient status among school-age children.

Study Design: This study was a cross-sectional descriptive design.

Methodology: The study was carried out among four hundred pupils aged 6 to 12 years. A semi-structured questionnaire was adopted to obtain relevant data. Each recruited pupil was examined clinically for signs of nutritional deficiencies. Blood samples were collected and microelements levels were estimated using ELISA kits, while total protein and albumin were by spectrophotometry methods. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21.

Results: The majority of the study population belongs to the high and middle socioeconomic class. The prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies was 9.5% and 36.5% for Zinc and selenium respectively. While the prevalence of 27% and 15.1% were recorded for albumin and total protein respectively. There were positive correlations between micronutrient (Zn&Se) levels and sociodemographic data and anthropometric data.

Conclusion: The early diagnosis of micronutrient deficiencies, prompt management of protein energy malnutrition and its complications can prevent the development of permanent physical and mental retardation.