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.

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