Nutritional Status of children with clefts in representative countries of Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and Latin America

Children born with craniofacial malformations specifically cleft lip, cleft lip and palate, and isolated cleft palate, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of malnutrition. These deformities present challenges for optimum infant and young child feeding. The purpose of this study is to determine the nutritional status of children screened for surgery by Operation Smile, a children's medical charity providing free reconstructive surgery. Three indicators of malnourishment: underweight, overweight and anemia, will be determined and compared to cleft type, cleft severity and gender in selected Asian, African and Latin American countries. The study is a cross-sectional, retrospective study examining de-identified data from medical records provided by Operation Smile. A total of 1,363 de-identified patient records will be analyzed for statistical relationships between variables using World Health Organization Child Growth Standards, indicators of malnutrition. The study will serve as a basis for more thorough understanding of malnutrition among this vulnerable population. It may also guide the development of further research and creation of appropriate interventions for the prevention and treatment of malnutrition. Organizations already providing services to children with these deformities could apply the knowledge to improve their intervention strategies, enhancing optimal growth and development of all patients.