Prognostic Accuracy of WHO Growth Standards to Predict Mortality in a Large-Scale Nutritional Program

This study by Lapidus and colleagues showed that among children being treated for malnutrition in Niger, Weight-for-Height indicators calculated using WHO standards were more accurate for predicting mortality risk than those calculated using the NCHS reference.

The findings are of great significance because it means that more children at risk of dying can be identified and treated.

In our earlier discussions regarding the use of the WHO growth standards, it was mentioned that the use of the WHO standards led to increased numbers of children admitted in hospital wards for inpatient care, thus stretching already limited facilities.

This study however suggests that the WHO growth standards are much more accurate and advantageous.

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