GS4 Student Scholars Symposium

The purpose of this study was to evaluate factors that impact malnutrition, particularly stunting and wasting, among preschool children in rural Honduras. Previous research shows high rates of single micronutrient deficiencies in Honduran children, such as vitamin A and iron, which can lead to growth stunting (Rachel et al, 2000). Children under five are particularly vulnerable due to their developing immune systems and the higher risk of dehydration from diarrheal illnesses (Ortiz-Quintero et al., 2024). Our research study consisted of secondary analyses of data collected in Spring 2021 in rural Honduras. Data from 402 Honduran children (200 male and 202 female) were gathered. The majority of the children lived in rural areas (89.5%), though most families do not have a home garden (65.8%). In addition, most children faced food insecurity (74.0%). These factors emphasize the importance of community nutrition among rural children.