Abstract: Objectives: Study was conducted to assess the nutritional status of children below 5 years of age using mid upper arm circumference (MUAC) and its determinants. Materials & Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was carried out in Akhter Saeed Teaching Hospital Lahore and Lady Wallington Hospital Lahore from April 2019 till Oct 2019. Using systematic random sampling technique, 225 children were enrolled in the study. A self -structured questionnaire was used to record sociodemographic details and feeding practices. MUAC was measured by a non-stretch measuring tape. Malnutrition was categorized into severe acute malnutrition (MUAC; <115mm) and moderate acute malnutrition (MUAC; 115mm-124mm). Data were analysed using SPSS Version 22. Chi square test was applied. p-value ≤ 0.05 was taken as significant. Results: The mean age of children is 2.43± 0.75 years. Malnutrition was observed in 54.6% participants. Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) was found in 59 (26.2%) children and moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) was found in 64 (28.4%). Children at the risk of developing malnutrition were 32 (14.2%) while remaining 70 (31.1%) were well nourished. The percentage of severe malnutrition was more in female children. Delayed initiation of breast feeding (p value=0.008), poor economic status (p value=0.004), incomplete immunization status (p value=0.003), poor appetite (p value=0.001) and frequent episodes of illness (p value= <0.001) were significantly associated with malnutrition. Conclusion: Prevalence of malnutrition in children aged <5 years was high. Girl child was more vulnerable to become malnourished. Delayed initiation of breast feeding, poor economic status, incomplete immunization, poor appetite and frequent episodes of illness were significantly associated with malnutrition. Keywords: Malnutrition, MUAC, under-five children
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