Document Type
Capstone Experience
Graduation Date
5-2025
Degree Name
Master of Public Health
Department
Health Promotion
First Committee Member
Dr. Chad Abresch
Second Committee Member
Dr. Ann Rogers
Third Committee Member
Dr. Yoder Aaron
Fourth Committee Member
Prof. Laura Vinson
Abstract
Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) is a life-threatening condition characterized by severe wasting. The World Health Organization defines SAM as a low weight-for-height Z-score (WHZ) less than -3 standard deviation (SD) from the median growth standard or the presence of edema of both feet and/or mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) less than 115mm. SAM is a significant public health concern affecting children under five in developing countries, with South Sudan being one of the most severely affected regions. Persistent food insecurity, weak healthcare systems, and ongoing conflict contribute to the high SAM prevalence in the region, where political, religious, and social divisions, along with scarce resources, exacerbate the humanitarian crisis. Despite global efforts to combat SAM, its prevalence remains above emergency thresholds in South Sudan. Addressing structural barriers is crucial for reducing the impact of SAM. This systematic literature review, guided by the Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome (PICO) framework, aimed to analyze the prevalence, causes, and interventions for SAM in children under five years of age in South Sudan. Specifically, this research focused on children under five, evaluating practical interventions, comparing effective versus ineffective strategies, and assessing the intervention outcome. Utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), this study ensured a structured approach to literature selection, data extraction, and synthesis, proposing evidence-based strategies to enhance SAM treatment and prevention efforts in South Sudan.
Recommended Citation
Kenyi, Rhoda Elia Iburu, "Severe Acute Malnutrtion Among Children Under Five in South Sudan" (2025). Capstone Experience. 372.
https://digitalcommons.unmc.edu/coph_slce/372