[01] Marwan Jalambo, Nutrition Sciences and Public Health Program/Palestine Technical College, Deir Al-Balah, Palestine. [02] Basil Kanoa, Palestinian Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine. [03] Mueen Kareri, Palestinian Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine. [04] Samaher Younis, Palestinian Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine. [05] Sujod Aljazzar, Nutrition Sciences and Public Health Program/Palestine Technical College, Deir Al-Balah, Palestine.

Globally, malnutrition is the major problem especially in children, that includes anemia, stunting, wasting, obesity and others. Also, parasitic infections are responsible for morbidity in children worldwide. This study aimed to measure the prevalence of anemia, stunting and parasitic infection among 5-6 years children in Gaza strip. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 571 preschool children. Data were collected in January and February 2018 based on a multistage sampling which children were selected by a cluster randomization from five kindergartens in five governorates in Gaza Strip. A validated self-administered questionnaire was completed by parents of children to investigate demographic and socio-economic status, dietary habits, lifestyle and physiological factors. Anthropometric measurements such as weight and height were determined as well as blood samples and stool samples were collected. Statistical analysis was carried out using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0. The study contained 52.4% males and 47.6% females which obtained from North Gaza 14.0%, Gaza 42.0%, Middle area 16.3%, Khanyounis 13.1% and Rafah 14.5%. The prevalence of anemia was 40.7%, Stunting 9.1% and parasite infection 17.1%. North Gaza and Rafah were the highest suffering from parasite infection. There a statistically significant association between family size, mother education, income and eating raw fruits with parasite infection. Moreover, there significant association between mother job and anemia and between birthweight and stunting. Regarding dietary habits, all results may be indicated inadequate amount of protein and micronutrient intake for large proportion of children. The prevalence of anemia was high among preschool children which appears to be a public health problem in Gaza Strip. Stunting and parasitic infection seem to be lower than the other studies in previous years. Some interventions to improve children nutritional status must be in concern.

Anemia, Stunting, Parasitic Infection, Preschool Children, Gaza Strip

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