Exploring Children's Knowledge of Healthy Eating, Digital Media Use, and Caregivers' Perspectives to Inform Design and Contextual Considerations for Game-Based Interventions in Schools for Low-Income Families in Lima, Peru: Survey Study.

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of overweight and obesity in schoolchildren is increasing in Peru. Given the increased use of digital media, there is potential to develop effective digital health interventions to promote healthy eating practices at schools. This study investigates the needs of schoolchildren in relation to healthy eating and the potential role of digital media to inform the design of game-based nutritional interventions. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to explore schoolchildren's knowledge about healthy eating and use of and preferences for digital media to inform the future development of a serious game to promote healthy eating. METHODS: A survey was conducted in 17 schools in metropolitan Lima, Peru. The information was collected virtually with specific questions for the schoolchild and their caregiver during October 2021 and November 2021 and following the COVID-19 public health restrictions. Questions on nutritional knowledge and preferences for and use of digital media were included. In the descriptive analysis, the percentages of the variables of interest were calculated. RESULTS: We received 3937 validated responses from caregivers and schoolchildren. The schoolchildren were aged between 8 years and 15 years (2030/3937, 55.8% girls). Of the caregivers, 83% (3267/3937) were mothers, and 56.5% (2223/3937) had a secondary education. Only 5.2% (203/3937) of schoolchildren's homes did not have internet access; such access was through WiFi (2151/3937, 54.6%) and mobile internet (1314/3937, 33.4%). In addition, 95.3% (3753/3937) of schoolchildren's homes had a mobile phone; 31.3% (1233/3937) had computers. In relation to children's knowledge on healthy eating, 42.2% (1663/3937) of schoolchildren did not know the recommendation to consume at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily, 46.7% (1837/3937) of schoolchildren did not identify front-of-package warning labels (FOPWLs), and 63.9% (2514/3937) did not relate the presence of an FOPWL with dietary risk. Most schoolchildren (3100/3937, 78.7%) preferred to use a mobile phone. Only 38.3% (1509/3937) indicated they preferred a computer. In addition, 47.9% (1885/3937) of caregivers considered that the internet helps in the education of schoolchildren, 82.7% (3254/3937) of caregivers gave permission for schoolchildren to play games with digital devices, and 38% (1495/3937) of caregivers considered that traditional digital games for children are inadequate. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that knowledge about nutrition in Peruvian schoolchildren has limitations. Most schoolchildren have access to the internet, with mobile phones being the device type with the greatest availability and preference for use. Caregivers' perspectives on games and schoolchildren, including a greater interest in using digital games, provide opportunities for the design and development of serious games to improve schoolchildren's nutritional knowledge in Peru. Future research is needed to explore the potential of serious games that are tailored to the needs and preferences of both schoolchildren and their caregivers in Peru in order to promote healthy eating.

Prevalence and socioeconomic determinants of food insecurity among Venezuelan migrant and refugee urban households in Peru.

Introduction: Food insecurity (FI) is a public health problem affecting many regions of the world. In Venezuela, the political, social and economic situation experienced since 2010 has caused a mass migration of its population to other countries, including Peru, which, in turn, may have limited access to and availability of food leading to a high nutritional burden in this population. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and analyze the determinants of FI in the households of Venezuelan immigrants in Peru. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using the "Encuesta Dirigida a la Población Venezolana que Reside en el País" (ENPOVE 2022). The dependent variable was moderate-severe FI (yes/no), which was constructed from an eight-item Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES) to measure FI at the household level. Poisson log generalized linear regression models were fitted to assess the association between the independent variables and FI. In addition, the reliability of the FIES as a tool for measuring food insecurity in the target population was determined. Results: A total of 3,491 households with Venezuelan migrants and refugees were included in the analysis. We found that 39.0% of Venezuelan immigrant households in Peru experienced moderate-severe FI. The determinants of FI included socio-demographic characteristics of the household head, and economic and geographical characteristics of the household. Regarding the FIES, we found that the inclusion of 7 of the 8 items had adequate internal consistency and its items assessed the same latent range. Discussion: This study highlights the need to identify determinants associated with FI to design strategies that mitigate the consequences of health crises and strengthen regional food systems, making them more sustainable. Although several studies have evaluated the prevalence of FI in Venezuelan migrant populations in other countries, this study is the first to evaluate the determinants of FI in Venezuelan immigrant households in Peru.

Asociación entre vacunación completa y anemia en niños menores de 5 años, del Perú, en los años 2019 a 2021 / Association between complete vaccination and anemia in children under 5 years of age, in Peru, in the years 2019 to 2021

Objetivo: Determinar la relación entre vacunación completa y anemia en niños menores a 5 años en los años 2019, 2020 y 2021. Materiales y métodos: Estudio transversal, de análisis secundario de la Encuesta Demográfica y de Salud Familiar (ENDES) proporcionada por el Instituto Nacional de Estadística e Informática (INEI) para los años 2019, 2020 y 2021. Se realizaron estimaciones respecto a la tenencia y nivel de anemia en los niños menores de 5 años, tomando como variable principal que los niños se encuentren al día en sus vacunas, según su edad en meses. La vacunación está en función a la Resolución Ministerial Nº 719-2018/MINSA y el periodo de estudio fue entre los años 2019 al 2021. Se describieron las frecuencias y medias de las variables de interés y luego se realizó un análisis bivariado de tipo Logit; finalmente se estimó un análisis ajustado aplicando un modelo de Poisson. Resultados: Se puede observar que, en el año 2019, la magnitud que tiene la inmunización completa, tanto a nivel individual como colectivo, es mayor a los años posteriores. De esta premisa se desprende la conclusión principal, la cual indica que existe asociación entre vacunación completa y probabilidad de anemia en menores a 5 años. Conclusiones: El presente estudio muestra que la vacunación en menores de 5 años reduce significativamente la probabilidad de anemia. Es necesario diseñar nuevas estrategias que permitan garantizar la cobertura de vacunación en la población infantil, dado que previene enfermedades entre ellas la anemia.(AU)

The present study consists of observing the relationship between immunizations and anemia in children under 5 years ofage. Anemia is a public health problem worldwide and LatinAmerica is no exception. Particularly, for the Peruvian case,approximately one third of children under 5 years of age present this disease. The consequences vary depending on thedegree of anemia that occurs; Mild anemia being the mostcommon case among minors. In order to combat anemia, thePeruvian Ministry of Health proposes various actions, including vaccination against rotavirus and pneumococcus as someof them. From this perspective, the question arises if there isa relationship between immunization and anemia. For this,taking information from the Demographic Survey of FamilyHealth (ENDES), estimates are made regarding the possession and level of anemia in children under 5 years of age, taking as the main variable that children are up to date with theirvaccinations, according to their age in months. Vaccination isbased on Ministerial Resolution No. 719-2018/MINSA and the study period is from 2019 to 2021, considering the year inwhich the pandemic began.It can be seen that in 2019, the magnitude of complete immunization, both individually and collectively, is greater thanin subsequent years. From this premise the main conclusioncan be drawn, which indicates that there is an inverse association between complete immunization and the tenure ofanemia in children under 5 years of age.(AU)

Iron status and hemoglobin adjustment by altitude to define anemia in children aged 6 to 8 months living in Lima, Arequipa, Cusco and Puno. / Estado de hierro y propuesta de ajuste de hemoglobina por altitud en niños de 6 a 8 meses residentes en Lima, Arequipa, Cusco y Puno.

OBJECTIVE.: To describe the iron status profile and to propose hemoglobin adjustment factors for altitude for children aged 6 to 8 months in Lima, Arequipa, Cusco and Puno. MATERIALS AND METHODS.: Cross-sectional study in children aged 6 to 8 months from four cities. We measured hemoglobin and other iron biomarkers, C-reactive protein (CRP), among others. To estimate the adjustment equation, we applied an exponential regression. We excluded children with iron deficiency (ID) and/or inflammation. RESULTS.: The proportions of ID were higher in Puno and Arequipa, while inflammation did not exceed 19% in any of the cities. Hemoglobin showed an exponential increase at higher altitude. The adjustment equation was: 10.34249 x (1.00007 ^ Alt). CONCLUSIONS.: Children residing in Arequipa and Puno showed higher rates of ID and lower iron reserves; furthermore, the increase in hemoglobin by altitude was exponential, showing the need to adjust hemoglobin at altitude.

OBJETIVOS.: Caracterizar el estado del hierro y proponer factores de ajuste de hemoglobina por altitud, en niños de 6 a 8 meses de Lima, Arequipa, Cusco y Puno. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS.: Estudio transversal en niños de 6 a 8 meses de edad en cuatro ciudades, se midió hemoglobina y otros biomarcadores de hierro, Proteína C reactiva (PCR), entre otros. Para estimar la ecuación de ajuste, se aplicó una regresión exponencial y excluimos a los niños con deficiencia de hierro (DH) y/o inflamación. RESULTADOS.: Las proporciones de DH fueron mayores en Puno y Arequipa, mientras que la inflamación no superó el 19% en ninguna de las ciudades. La hemoglobina mostró un incremento exponencial a mayor altitud. La ecuación de ajuste fue: 10,34249 x (1,00007

Correlación y concordancia del índice de masa corporal con el perímetro abdominal y el índice cintura-talla en adultos peruanos de 18 a 59 años / Correlation and concordance between the body mass index and abdominal perimeter with the waist-to-height ratio in peruvian adults aged 18 to 59 years

Objetivos. Determinar la correlación y concordancia diagnóstica del índice de masa corporal (IMC), con el perímetro abdominal (PA) y el índice cintura-talla (ICT). Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, transversal, de datos secundarios usando las bases de datos antropométricos de la Encuesta Vigilancia Alimentaria y Nutricional por Etapas de Vida Adulto de 18 a 59 años 2017-2018 que incluyó 1084 personas para los dominios geográficos Lima Metropolitana, resto urbano y rural. Se estimaron las prevalencias de obesidad según IMC, PA e ICT y se empleó el coeficiente de correlación de Lin y Kappa de Cohen para determinar la correlación y concordancia entre las tres mediciones antropométricas. Resultados. Según los criterios de IMC, PA e ICT las prevalencias de obesidad fueron de 26,8%, 50,4% y 85,4%, respectivamente; las prevalencias fueron mayores en mujeres y en mayores de 30 años. La correlación entre IMC vs. PA e IMC vs. ICT fue pobre y de PA con ICT fue moderada, con diferencias entre hombres y mujeres. Además, la concordancia entre IMC y PA fue aceptable, mientras que la concordancia entre IMC vs. ICT fue leve. Conclusiones . Los resultados de la correlación y concordancia son limitados y sugieren que no son medidas intercambiables, por lo que es necesario evaluar la suficiencia de emplear solo IMC para el diagnóstico de obesidad en el Perú. Esta limitada correlación y concordancia se refleja en las diferentes proporciones de obesidad que oscilan entre 26,8% a 85,4% al aplicar los tres criterios.

Objective. To determine the correlation and diagnostic agreement of body mass index (BMI) and abdominal perimeter (AP) with the waist-to-height ratio (WHtR). Materials and methods. A descriptive, cross-sectional, secondary data study was conducted using the anthropometric databases of the Food and Nutrition Surveillance Survey by Adult Life Stages from 18 to 59 years old, 2017-2018, which included 1084 individuals for the geographic domains of Metropolitan Lima, other urban areas, and rural regions. The prevalence of obesity was estimated according to BMI, AP and WHtR. Lin's correlation coefficient and Cohen's Kappa were used to determine the correlation and agreement between the three anthropometric measurements. Results. According to the BMI, AP, and WHtR criteria, the prevalence of obesity was 26.8%, 50.4% and 85.4%, respectively; the prevalence was higher in women and in those over 30 years of age. The correlation between BMI and AP, as well as between BMI and WHtR was poor; it was moderate between AP and WHtR, with differences between men and women. Furthermore, the agreement between BMI and AP was acceptable, whereas the agreement between BMI vs. WHtR was mild. Conclusions. The results regarding correlation and agreement are limited and suggest that they are not interchangeable measures, so it is necessary to evaluate the adequacy of using BMI alone for the diagnosis of obesity in Peru. The limited correlation and agreement was reflected in the different proportions of obesity that range from 26.8% to 85.4% when applying the three criteria.

COVID-19, body weight and the neighbourhood: food system dimensions and consumption associated with changes in body weight of Peruvian adults during first wave lockdowns.

Objective: The objective of this study is to assess changes in the dimensions of the food system and consumption associated with body weight variations during the first month's lockdown in Peruvian adults in Metropolitan Lima. Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted during the first months of lockdowns in Peru. 694 adults completed a web-based survey about changes experienced in the process of acquiring food during lockdown, changes in their intake and self-perceived body weight. A multinomial logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the factors associated with changes in body weight. Results: Weight gain was perceived in 38% of the participants and 22.8% perceived weight loss. 39.2% did not perceive changes in their weight. Risk factors for body weight gain were increased alcohol consumption (OR=4.510, 95% CI 1.764 to 11.531) and decreased fruit consumption (OR=2.129, 95% CI 1.290 to 3.515), while decreasing cereal intake (OR=0.498, 95% CI 0.269 to 0.922) and choosing nutritious food as a driver for purchase (OR=0.512, 95% CI 0.320 to 0.821) were found to be protective against gaining weight. Decreasing food intake during the pandemic (OR=2.188, 95% CI 1.348 to 3.550) and having to miss important foods (OR=2.354, 95% CI 1.393 to 3.978), were associated with weight loss. Conclusions: During confinement, weight gain was mostly associated with food consumption and personal food system factors. Meanwhile, weight loss was associated with external food system factors.

Diseño y validación de una lista de intercambio de alimentos peruanos para la confección de dietas y planificación de menús / Design and validation of a peruvian food exchange list for meal planning

Objetivo: La finalidad del estudio fue diseñar y validar una lista de intercambio de alimentos peruanos (LIA) para la confección de dietas y planificación de menús. Material y métodos: Se tomó como base la metodología para diseñar listas de intercambio descrita en trabajos previos, desarrollándose en seis fases realizadas en múltiples intervenciones en laboratorio, en donde se evaluaron 273 alimentos, que fueron estudiados a través de un análisis descriptivo cualitativo. Se realizó una validación con 12 nutricionistas que elaboraron un plan nutricional y luego se comparó la composición nutricional obtenida usando la tabla peruana de composición de alimentos 2017 (TPCA) con la composición nutricional aplicando LIA. Para la comparación de métodos se aplicó la prueba de Wilcoxon. Resultados: Se elaboró una lista de intercambio de alimentos peruanos (LIA) que incluyó 273 alimentos categorizados en siete grupos de intercambio. Se estimó la media del aporte de energía y macronutrientes por cada grupo de intercambio y se compiló un álbum fotográfico con las porciones de intercambio. Respecto a la validación de la LIA, en la comparación de la cantidad de energía, carbohidratos, proteínas y grasas de los planes alimentarios usando TPCA versus LIA no se encontraron diferencias significativas. Conclusión: Se obtuvo una LIA válida que permite la confección y planificación de dietas de forma eficiente, dentro de un margen de error adecuado, se recomiendan nuevos estudios que incorporen otras poblaciones más específicas y nuevos alimentos.(AU)

Objective: The purpose of the study was to design andvalidate a Peruvian food portions exchange list (LIA) for thepreparation of diets and menu planning. Methodology: The methodology for designing exchangelists described in previous studies was used as a basis, devel-oped in six phases carried out in multiple laboratory interven-tions, where 273 foods were evaluated and studied through aqualitative descriptive analysis. A validation was performedwith 12 nutritionists who elaborated a nutritional plan andthen the nutritional composition obtained using the Peruviantable of food composition 2017 (TPCA) was compared withthe nutritional composition applying LIA. For the comparisonof methods, the Wilcoxon test was applied. Results: A Peruvian food exchange list (LIA) was devel-oped that included 273 foods categorized into seven ex-change groups. The mean energy and macronutrient intakefor each exchange group was estimated and a photographicalbum was compiled with the exchange portions. Regardingthe validation of the LIA, in the comparison of the amount ofenergy, carbohydrates, proteins and fats of the meal plans us-ing TPCA versus LIA no significant differences were found. Conclusion: A valid LIA was obtained that allows thepreparation and planning of diets in an efficient way, withinan adequate margin of error, new studies incorporating othermore specific populations and new foods are recommended.(AU)

Perceptions and experiences of healthcare professionals on the guideline of management and treatment of anemia among children under 3 years of age during the COVID-19 pandemic. / Percepciones y experiencias de los profesionales de la salud sobre la aplicación de la norma de manejo y tratamiento de la anemia en menores de tres años durante la pandemia de la COVID-19.

OBJECTIVE.: To understand the perceptions and experiences of healthcare professionals on the application of the guideline for the management and treatment of anemia in children under 3 years old, during the COVID-19 pandemic, in metropolitan Lima, 2020. MATERIALS AND METHODS.: Phenomenological design. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals: physicians, nurses and nutritionists working at the first level of care in the Ministry of Health in Lima, Peru. The interviews were conducted virtually with the participants, all of whom worked face-to-face in services providing care to children under 3 years old. Data analysis was thematic and NVivo software was used for coding. RESULTS.: A total of 33 interviews with healthcare professionals were conducted between November 2020 and January 2021. Four themes emerged about the guideline: its feasibility, perceived imperfections, challenges in implementing it, and prospects for improvement. The health professionals interviewed perceived the guideline to be feasible to implement, but there were gaps in the indications that should have been more explicit. Nevertheless, they expressed their challenges and expectations for improvement. CONCLUSIONS.: Healthcare professionals perceived that it was feasible to use the guideline and emphasized their experiences overcoming perceived difficulties and weaknesses in the guidelines for anemia management and treatment.

OBJETIVOS.: Comprender las percepciones y experiencias de los profesionales de la salud sobre la aplicación de la directiva para el manejo y tratamiento de anemia en niños menores de tres años, durante la pandemia de la COVID-19 en Lima Metropolitana, año 2020. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS.: Estudio de diseño fenomenológico. Se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas individuales a profesionales de salud: médicos, enfermeras y nutricionistas que trabajaban en el primer nivel de atención en el Ministerio de Salud de Lima, Perú. Las entrevistas se llevaron a cabo en forma virtual. Todos laboraban en forma presencial en servicios de atención a niños menores de tres años. El análisis de datos fue temático, para las codificaciones se utilizó el software NVivo. RESULTADOS.: Se realizaron 33 entrevistas a profesionales de la salud, entre noviembre de 2020 a enero de 2021. Surgieron cuatro temas emergentes sobre la norma: su factibilidad, imperfecciones percibidas, los desafíos para implementarla y las perspectivas de mejora. Los profesionales entrevistados percibieron que la norma era factible de ejecutarla, pero presentaba vacíos en las indicaciones que deberían estar más explícitos los aspectos del manejo y tratamiento de la anemia. A pesar de ello dieron a conocer sus desafíos y expectativas de mejora. CONCLUSIONES.: Los encuestados percibieron que fue factible utilizar la norma y destacaron sus experiencias para lograr superar las dificultades pese a encontrar vacíos en la normativa para el manejo y tratamiento de la anemia.

Analysis of the distribution of macronutrients of food baskets delivered by municipalities during the COVID-19 pandemic in Peru. / Análisis de la distribución de macronutrientes en canastas alimentarias entregadas por las municipalidades durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en Perú.

OBJECTIVES.: To evaluate and compare the macronutrient distribution of the food baskets delivered by Peruvian municipalities during the COVID-19 pandemic according to the geographic domain and assigned budget level. MATERIALS AND METHODS.: Secondary analysis of the database "Consultation of Acquisition and distribution of basic necessities of the basic family basket" of the General Comptroller of the Republic. Stratified probability sampling was carried out. The caloric intake distribution was calculated according to macronutrients and compared with the Acceptable Intervals of Macronutrient Distribution (IADM) of the Nutrition Institute of Central America and Panama (INCAP) and the National Institute of Civil Defense (INDECI). RESULTS.: At the national level, the median caloric intake of proteins was 7.7%; for carbohydrates it was 62.5%; and for fats it was 28.1%. The proportion of municipalities with protein deficit was 84%; Municipalities with excess carbohydrates ranged from 16.5% (according to INCAP) to 35.9% (according to INDECI), and with excess fat, it was between 61.6% (according to INCAP) and 20.2% (according to INDECI). According to INDECI, nationally only 9.2% of municipalities delivered baskets with an adequate distribution of macronutrients; Metropolitan Lima stands out with the highest proportions of adequate baskets, while in the Jungle region this percentage was less than 5%. CONCLUSIONS.: Most of the baskets delivered did not have adequate macronutrient distribution. Especially the baskets of municipalities outside of Metropolitan Lima or those that had smaller budget. Carbohydrates and fats were the nutrients that were included in excess, while proteins were deficient.

OBJETIVOS.: Evaluar y comparar la distribución de macronutrientes de las canastas alimentarias entregadas por las municipalidades peruanas durante la pandemia de COVID-19 según dominio geográfico y nivel de presupuesto asignado. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS.: Análisis secundario de la base de datos «Consulta de adquisición y distribución de bienes de primera necesidad de la canasta básica familiar¼ de la Contraloría General de la República. Se realizó un muestreo probabilístico estratificado. Se calculó la distribución del aporte calórico según macronutrientes y se comparó con los intervalos aceptables de distribución de macronutrientes (IADM) del Instituto de Nutrición de Centro América y Panamá (INCAP) y del Instituto Nacional de Defensa Civil (INDECI). RESULTADOS.: A nivel nacional la mediana del aporte calórico de las proteínas fue 7,7%; carbohidratos 62,5%, y grasas 28,1%. La proporción de municipalidades con canastas con déficit de proteínas fue de 84%. Las municipalidades con canastas con exceso de carbohidratos variaron de 16,5% (según INCAP) a 35,9% (según INDECI) y con exceso de grasas fue 61,6 % (según INCAP) y 20,2% (según INDECI). Según INDECI, a nivel nacional solo el 9,2% de municipalidades entregaron canastas con distribución adecuada de macronutrientes, aquí destaca Lima Metropolitana con las proporciones más altas; mientras que en la selva este porcentaje fue menor del 5%. CONCLUSIONES.: La mayoría de las canastas entregadas no tuvieron distribución adecuada de macronutrientes, en especial las canastas de municipalidades fuera de Lima Metropolitana o las que contaban con menor presupuesto. Los carbohidratos y las grasas fueron los nutrientes que se incluyeron en exceso, mientras que las proteínas tuvieron déficit.

Percepciones y experiencias de los profesionales de la salud sobre la aplicación de la norma de manejo y tratamiento de la anemia en menores de tres años durante la pandemia de la COVID-19 / Perceptions and experiences of healthcare professionals on the guideline of management and treatment of anemia among children under 3 years of age during the COVID-19 pandemic

RESUMEN Objetivos. Comprender las percepciones y experiencias de los profesionales de la salud sobre la aplicación de la directiva para el manejo y tratamiento de anemia en niños menores de tres años, durante la pandemia de la COVID-19 en Lima Metropolitana, año 2020. Materiales y métodos. Estudio de diseño fenomenológico. Se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas individuales a profesionales de salud: médicos, enfermeras y nutricionistas que trabajaban en el primer nivel de atención en el Ministerio de Salud de Lima, Perú. Las entrevistas se llevaron a cabo en forma virtual. Todos laboraban en forma presencial en servicios de atención a niños menores de tres años. El análisis de datos fue temático, para las codificaciones se utilizó el software NVivo. Resultados. Se realizaron 33 entrevistas a profesionales de la salud, entre noviembre de 2020 a enero de 2021. Surgieron cuatro temas emergentes sobre la norma: su factibilidad, imperfecciones percibidas, los desafíos para implementarla y las perspectivas de mejora. Los profesionales entrevistados percibieron que la norma era factible de ejecutarla, pero presentaba vacíos en las indicaciones que deberían estar más explícitos los aspectos del manejo y tratamiento de la anemia. A pesar de ello dieron a conocer sus desafíos y expectativas de mejora. Conclusiones. Los encuestados percibieron que fue factible utilizar la norma y destacaron sus experiencias para lograr superar las dificultades pese a encontrar vacíos en la normativa para el manejo y tratamiento de la anemia.

ABSTRACT Objective. To understand the perceptions and experiences of healthcare professionals on the application of the guideline for the management and treatment of anemia in children under 3 years old, during the COVID-19 pandemic, in metropolitan Lima, 2020. Materials and methods. Phenomenological design. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals: physicians, nurses and nutritionists working at the first level of care in the Ministry of Health in Lima, Peru. The interviews were conducted virtually with the participants, all of whom worked face-to-face in services providing care to children under 3 years old. Data analysis was thematic and NVivo software was used for coding. Results. A total of 33 interviews with healthcare professionals were conducted between November 2020 and January 2021. Four themes emerged about the guideline: its feasibility, perceived imperfections, challenges in implementing it, and prospects for improvement. The health professionals interviewed perceived the guideline to be feasible to implement, but there were gaps in the indications that should have been more explicit. Nevertheless, they expressed their challenges and expectations for improvement. Conclusions. Healthcare professionals perceived that it was feasible to use the guideline and emphasized their experiences overcoming perceived difficulties and weaknesses in the guidelines for anemia management and treatment.

Análisis de la distribución de macronutrientes en canastas alimentarias entregadas por las municipalidades durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en Perú / Analysis of the distribution of macronutrients of food baskets delivered by municipalities during the COVID-19 pandemic in Peru

RESUMEN Objetivos. Evaluar y comparar la distribución de macronutrientes de las canastas alimentarias entregadas por las municipalidades peruanas durante la pandemia de COVID-19 según dominio geográfico y nivel de presupuesto asignado. Materiales y métodos. Análisis secundario de la base de datos «Consulta de adquisición y distribución de bienes de primera necesidad de la canasta básica familiar¼ de la Contraloría General de la República. Se realizó un muestreo probabilístico estratificado. Se calculó la distribución del aporte calórico según macronutrientes y se comparó con los intervalos aceptables de distribución de macronutrientes (IADM) del Instituto de Nutrición de Centro América y Panamá (INCAP) y del Instituto Nacional de Defensa Civil (INDECI). Resultados. A nivel nacional la mediana del aporte calórico de las proteínas fue 7,7%; carbohidratos 62,5%, y grasas 28,1%. La proporción de municipalidades con canastas con déficit de proteínas fue de 84%. Las municipalidades con canastas con exceso de carbohidratos variaron de 16,5% (según INCAP) a 35,9% (según INDECI) y con exceso de grasas fue 61,6 % (según INCAP) y 20,2% (según INDECI). Según INDECI, a nivel nacional solo el 9,2% de municipalidades entregaron canastas con distribución adecuada de macronutrientes, aquí destaca Lima Metropolitana con las proporciones más altas; mientras que en la selva este porcentaje fue menor del 5%. Conclusiones. La mayoría de las canastas entregadas no tuvieron distribución adecuada de macronutrientes, en especial las canastas de municipalidades fuera de Lima Metropolitana o las que contaban con menor presupuesto. Los carbohidratos y las grasas fueron los nutrientes que se incluyeron en exceso, mientras que las proteínas tuvieron déficit.

ABSTRACT Objectives. To evaluate and compare the macronutrient distribution of the food baskets delivered by Peruvian municipalities during the COVID-19 pandemic according to the geographic domain and assigned budget level. Materials and methods. Secondary analysis of the database "Consultation of Acquisition and distribution of basic necessities of the basic family basket" of the General Comptroller of the Republic. Stratified probability sampling was carried out. The caloric intake distribution was calculated according to macronutrients and compared with the Acceptable Intervals of Macronutrient Distribution (IADM) of the Nutrition Institute of Central America and Panama (INCAP) and the National Institute of Civil Defense (INDECI). Results. At the national level, the median caloric intake of proteins was 7.7%; for carbohydrates it was 62.5%; and for fats it was 28.1%. The proportion of municipalities with protein deficit was 84%; Municipalities with excess carbohydrates ranged from 16.5% (according to INCAP) to 35.9% (according to INDECI), and with excess fat, it was between 61.6% (according to INCAP) and 20.2% (according to INDECI). According to INDECI, nationally only 9.2% of municipalities delivered baskets with an adequate distribution of macronutrients; Metropolitan Lima stands out with the highest proportions of adequate baskets, while in the Jungle region this percentage was less than 5%. Conclusions. Most of the baskets delivered did not have adequate macronutrient distribution. Especially the baskets of municipalities outside of Metropolitan Lima or those that had smaller budget. Carbohydrates and fats were the nutrients that were included in excess, while proteins were deficient.

Correlation and agreement between the body mass index and abdominal perimeter with the waist-to-height ratio in peruvian adults aged 18 to 59 years. / Correlación y concordancia del índice de masa corporal con el perímetro abdominal y el índice cintura-talla en adultos peruanos de 18 a 59 años.

OBJECTIVE.: Motivation for the study: the body mass index (BMI) is the most widely used criterion for diagnosing obesity, despite its limitations and the fact that it is not the most accurate for identifying the risks of metabolic diseases. In Peru, the correlation of various anthropometric measures has not been evaluated in a representative sample of adults. Main findings: the correlation was poor between BMI and abdominal perimeter (AP) and BMI and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and moderate between AP and WHtR. In addition, the diagnostic agreement between BMI and AP was acceptable but between BMI and WHtR was mild. Implications: the results show that the anthropometric measures evaluated are not interchangeable and that the use of BMI should be re-evaluated since there are other indexes that identify the risks of chronic diseases earlier. To determine the correlation and diagnostic agreement of body mass index (BMI) and abdominal perimeter (AP) with the waist-to-height ratio (WHtR). MATERIALS AND METHODS.: A descriptive, cross-sectional, secondary data study was conducted using the anthropometric databases of the Food and Nutrition Surveillance Survey by Adult Life Stages from 18 to 59 years old, 2017-2018, which included 1084 individuals for the geographic domains of Metropolitan Lima, other urban areas, and rural regions. The prevalence of obesity was estimated according to BMI, AP and WHtR. Lin's correlation coefficient and Cohen's Kappa were used to determine the correlation and agreement between the three anthropometric measurements. RESULTS.: According to the BMI, AP, and WHtR criteria, the prevalence of obesity was 26.8%, 50.4% and 85.4%, respectively; the prevalence was higher in women and in those over 30 years of age. The correlation between BMI and AP, as well as between BMI and WHtR was poor; it was moderate between AP and WHtR, with differences between men and women. Furthermore, the agreement between BMI and AP was acceptable, whereas the agreement between BMI vs. WHtR was mild. CONCLUSIONS.: The results regarding correlation and agreement are limited and suggest that they are not interchangeable measures, so it is necessary to evaluate the adequacy of using BMI alone for the diagnosis of obesity in Peru. The limited correlation and agreement was reflected in the different proportions of obesity that range from 26.8% to 85.4% when applying the three criteria.

OBJETIVOS.: Motivación para realizar el estudio: el índice masa corporal (IMC) es el criterio más usado para diagnosticar obesidad, a pesar de sus limitaciones y de que no es el más preciso para identificar los riesgos de enfermedades metabólicas. En Perú no se ha evaluado la correlación de diversas medidas antropométricas en una muestra representativa de adultos. Principales hallazgos: la correlación entre el IMC y el perímetro abdominal (PA) e IMC y el índice cintura-talla (ICT) fue pobre y entre PA e ICT fue moderada. Además, la concordancia diagnóstica entre; IMC y PA fue aceptable y entre IMC e ICT fue leve. Implicancias: los resultados muestran que las medidas antropométricas evaluadas no serían intercambiables y que al existir otros índices que identifican más precozmente los riesgos a enfermedades crónicas debe evaluarse el uso del IMC. Determinar la correlación y concordancia diagnóstica del índice de masa corporal (IMC), con el perímetro abdominal (PA) y el índice cintura-talla (ICT). MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS.: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, transversal, de datos secundarios usando las bases de datos antropométricos de la Encuesta Vigilancia Alimentaria y Nutricional por Etapas de Vida Adulto de 18 a 59 años 2017-2018 que incluyó 1084 personas para los dominios geográficos Lima Metropolitana, resto urbano y rural. Se estimaron las prevalencias de obesidad según IMC, PA e ICT y se empleó el coeficiente de correlación de Lin y Kappa de Cohen para determinar la correlación y concordancia entre las tres mediciones antropométricas. RESULTADOS.: Según los criterios de IMC, PA e ICT las prevalencias de obesidad fueron de 26,8%, 50,4% y 85,4%, respectivamente; las prevalencias fueron mayores en mujeres y en mayores de 30 años. La correlación entre IMC vs. PA e IMC vs. ICT fue pobre y de PA con ICT fue moderada, con diferencias entre hombres y mujeres. Además, la concordancia entre IMC y PA fue aceptable, mientras que la concordancia entre IMC vs. ICT fue leve. CONCLUSIONES: . Los resultados de la correlación y concordancia son limitados y sugieren que no son medidas intercambiables, por lo que es necesario evaluar la suficiencia de emplear solo IMC para el diagnóstico de obesidad en el Perú. Esta limitada correlación y concordancia se refleja en las diferentes proporciones de obesidad que oscilan entre 26,8% a 85,4% al aplicar los tres criterios.

Does food biodiversity protect against malnutrition and favour the resilience to climate change-related events in Amazon Indigenous communities? A protocol for a mixed methods study.

Background : Undernutrition is projected to be a major consequence of climate change. Biodiversity could enhance climate change resilience by improving nutritional outcomes and providing healthy food resources during and/or after climate-related events. For Indigenous populations who currently base their diet on local biodiversity, rapid climate changes may affect their ability to produce, access or gather food and consequently impact their nutritional status. There is a knowledge gap regarding whether nutritional status among Indigenous populations is better among those who consume a diet with greater biodiversity than those who have a diet with low biodiversity. Objective : This study aims to investigate the role of food biodiversity (FBD) in nutritional resilience to extreme flooding events of Shawi Amazon Indigenous adults living in Peruvian communities that have experienced extreme floods in the past five years. Methods : This study will use a mixed-method sequential explanatory design. The quantitative component includes a cross-sectional survey to assess the association between food biodiversity (FBD) and the prevalence of anaemia in adults aged 15 to 60 years old (n=365). Anaemia will be evaluated using blood hemoglobin and serum ferritin. FBD will be measured with a food frequency questionnaire and a 24-hour dietary recall. Soil-transmitted helminth infections, malaria, and inflammatory biomarkers will also be evaluated. The qualitative component will include a community-based participatory approach to investigate the role of FBD in the responses to extreme floods. Male (n=14) and female (n=14) participants, previously identified in the quantitative phase with high and low levels of FBD, will be invited to participate in a Photovoice activity and semi-structured interviews. A analytical framework for climate change resilience will be used to integrate the data. Discussion : Findings will be integrated to identify nutritional resilience indicators that can inform adaptative interventions to changing climatic conditions in the Amazon and that respect Indigenous worldviews.

Validación del cuestionario de elección de alimentos en jóvenes de Lima Metropolitana, Perú, 2017

RESUMEN En el actual contexto de transición nutricional es necesario explorar los factores que afectan la elección de alimentos en la población peruana, por ello el objetivo del estudio fue validar el instrumento Food Choice Questionnaire (FCQ) en Lima Metropolitana. Se realizó un estudio de corte transversal para validar el instrumento FCQ diseñado por Steptoe. Se desarrollaron 4 etapas: revisión del FCQ y adecuación al español, validación semántica y de contenido con expertos, validación de constructo utilizando el análisis factorial de componentes principales y análisis de fiabilidad con el Alfa de Cronbach. Los resultados de la validez semántica y de contenido permitieron obtener un instrumento modificado agregándose el factor "Entorno social". En la validación de constructo se realizó un análisis factorial y luego de 4 iteraciones se depuraron 7 ítems resultando un instrumento con 10 factores y 36 ítems, que respondían al 62,6% de la varianza; posteriormente con los resultados del análisis de fiabilidad, el cuestionario FCQ se redujo a 8 factores y 32 ítems. En conclusión, se obtuvo una versión validada del cuestionario FCQ para ser utilizado en población de 18 a 29 años de la capital del Perú. El cuestionario validado consta de 8 factores incluyéndose el "Entorno social". Son necesarios otros estudios en diferentes regiones y grupos poblacionales para recoger nuevos factores que influyen en la elección de alimentos.

ABSTRACT In the current nutrition transition context, the exploration of associated factors with food choices in the Peruvian population is necessary; therefore the study's objective was to validate the Food Choice Questionnaire (FCQ) in Metropolitan Lima. A cross-sectional design was conducted to validate the FCQ instrument designed by Steptoe. It was developed in 4 stages: FCQ's review and adaptation to Spanish, semantic and content validation with experts, construct validity using factorial analysis of principal components, and reliability analysis using Cronbach's Alpha. The results of the semantic and content validity produced a modified instrument with one "social environment" factor and 6 more items. For construct validity, a factorial analysis was performed and after 4 iterations, 7 items were removed, resulting an instrument with 10 factors and 36 items, which explained 62.6% of the variance. Finally, with the results of the reliability analysis, the FCQ questionnaire was reduced to 8 factors and 32 items. In conclusion, a validated version of the FCQ questionnaire was obtained to be used in 18 to 29 years old population of the capital city of Peru. The questionnaire validated consists of 8 factors including the "social environment". Other studies in different regions and population groups are necessary to collect new factors that influence food choices.

Social predictors of food insecurity during the stay-at-home order due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Peru. Results from a cross-sectional web-based survey.

BACKGROUND: Stay-at-home orders and social distancing have been implemented as the primary tools to reduce the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, this approach has indirectly lead to the unemployment of 2·3 million Peruvians, in Lima, Perú alone. As a result, the risk of food insecurity may have increased, especially in low-income families who rely on a daily wage. This study estimates the prevalence of moderate or severe food insecurity (MSFI) and identifies the associated factors that explain this outcome during the stay-at-home order. METHODS: A cross-sectional web-based survey, with non-probabilistic sampling, was conducted between May 18 and June 30, 2020, during the stay-at-home order in Peru. We used social media advertisements on Facebook to reach 18-59-year-olds living in Peru. MSFI was assessed using the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES). Rasch model methodology requirements were considered, and factors associated with MSFI were selected using stepwise forward selection. A Poisson generalized linear model (Poisson GLM), with log link function, was employed to estimate adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR). FINDINGS: This analysis is based on 1846 replies. The prevalence of MSFI was 23·2%, and FIES proved to be an acceptable instrument with reliability 0·72 and infit 0·8-1·3. People more likely to experience MSFI were those with low income (less than 255 US$/month) in the pre-pandemic period (aPR 3·77; 95%CI, 1·98-7·16), those whose income was significantly reduced during the pandemic period (aPR 2·27; 95%CI, 1·55-3·31), and those whose savings ran out in less than 21 days (aPR 1·86; 95%CI, 1·43-2·42). Likewise, heads of households (aPR 1·20; 95%CI, 1·00-1·44) and those with probable SARS-CoV2 cases as relatives (aPR 1·29; 95%CI, 1·05-1·58) were at an increased risk of MSFI. Additionally, those who perceived losing weight during the pandemic (aPR 1·21; 95%CI, 1·01-1·45), and increases in processed foods prices (aPR 1·31; 95%CI, 1·08-1·59), and eating less minimally processed food (aPR 1·82; 95%CI, 1·48-2·24) were more likely to experience MSFI. INTERPRETATION: People most at risk of MSFI were those in a critical economic situation before and during the pandemic. Social protection policies should be reinforced to prevent or mitigate these adverse effects.

Evaluación “in vivo” de la biodisponibilidad del hierro en alimentos infantiles fortificados con hierro / Evaluation of the bioavailability of iron from fortified with iron baby food products

Objetivo: Evaluar la biodisponibilidad del hierro en alimentos infantiles fortificados con hierro (papillas), usando el método “in vivo” en ratas Holtzman sin anemia. Métodos: Diseño experimental controlado y aleatorizado. Se emplearon 48 ratas de la cepa Holtzman sin anemia que se asignaron durante 10 días a 4 tipos de dieta: Grupo 1(Papilla A), Grupo 2 (Papilla B), Grupo 3 (Caseína con hierro) y grupo 4 (Caseína sin hierro). Los animales se colocaron en jaulas metabólicas individuales para determinar el consumo de la dieta y las excretas de manera diaria. La biodisponibilidad de hierro se determinó a través del balance metabólico, coeficiente de digestibilidad aparente y porcentaje de retención del hierro. Resultados: El consumo de alimentos, la ganancia de peso, la ingesta de hierro y excreción fecal de hierro fue significativamente mayor en los grupos con dieta a base de papillas (p< 0,05) comparados con los grupos de caseína, el balance metabólico de hierro, coeficiente de digestibilidad y porcentaje de retención de hierro fueron negativos en los grupos de papillas y caseína sin hierro, mientras que el grupo caseína con hierro mostró un balance positivo de hierro en los 3 indicadores, estas diferencias fueron significativas (p< 0,05). Conclusiones: Las dietas en base a papillas mostraron menor biodisponibilidad de hierro comparadas con la dieta caseína con hierro, lo cual indicaría que los insumos utilizados en la formulación de las papillas podrían estar afectando la absorción del hierro. (AU)

Objective: To evaluate the bioavailability of iron in fortified baby food (porridge), using the “in vivo” method in Holtzman rats without anemia. Methods: Randomized and controlled experimental design. 48 rats of the Holtzman strain without anemia were used, which were assigned for 10 days to 4 types of diet: Group 1 (Porridge A), Group 2 (Porridge B), Group 3 (Casein with iron) and Group 4 (Casein without iron). The animals were placed in individual metabolic cages to determine the consumption of diet and excreta on a daily basis. Iron bioavailability was determined through metabolic balance, apparent digestibility coefficient, and iron retention percentage. Results: Food consumption, weight gain, iron intake and fecal iron excretion were significantly higher in the groups with a porridge-based diet (p <0.05) compared to the casein groups, the metabolic balance of iron, digestibility coefficient and iron retention percentage were negative in the porridge and casein groups without iron, while the casein group with iron showed a positive balance of iron in the 3 indicators, these differences were significant (p <0, 05). Conclusions: The porridge-based diets showed lower bioavailability of iron compared to the casein diet with iron, which would indicate that the inputs used in the formulation of the porridges could be affecting the absorption of iron. (AU)

Factores asociados a las actitudes hacia la violencia en escolares de las zonas urbano-marginales de Lima Metropolitana, 2019 / Factors associated with attitudes towards violence in schoolchildren from marginal urban areas of Metropolitan Lima, 2019

RESUMEN Objetivo: Identificar los factores asociados a las actitudes hacia la violencia (AHV) en escolares de instituciones educativas (IE) públicas ubicadas en zonas urbano-marginales de Lima Metropolitana en 2019. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal. Los participantes fueron adolescentes de diez IE mixtas del sexto grado de primaria al tercer año de secundaria. Se empleó el cuestionario de actitudes hacia la violencia (CAHV25). En el análisis bivariado se empleó la prueba de coeficiente de correlación de Spearman, la U de Mann-Whitney y la H de KruskalWallis con post hoc de Dunn, ajustado por método de Bonferroni. Para determinar los factores asociados se realizó el análisis multivariado mediante un modelo de regresión binomial negative. Resultados: El 45,1% de escolares fueron de sexo femenino y el 87,3% recibió información sobre acoso escolar. En el análisis bivariado, se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los puntajes de las AHV con la edad (p=0,003), el sexo (p<0,001), tener una cuenta de red social (p = 0,009) y el año de estudios (p<0,001); sin embargo, en el modelo multivariado, los factores que estuvieron asociados al puntaje total de las AHV fueron la edad (p=0,012) y el sexo (p<0,001). Conclusión: Los factores asociados a las AHV en escolares de IE públicas fueron la edad y el sexo; estos hallazgos indicarían la necesidad de considerar la perspectiva de género en el análisis de la violencia escolar y diferenciar las intervenciones según edad.

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify factors associated with attitudes towards violence (ATV) in schoolchildren from public educational institutions (EI) located in marginal urban areas of Metropolitan Lima in 2019. Materials and methods: Observational, descriptive and transversal study. The sample was made up of adolescents from 10 mixed-gender EIs enrolled between the sixth grade of primary school and the third year of secondary school. The questionnaire of attitudes towards violence (CAHV-25) was used. During the bivariate analysis, the Spearman Correlation Coefficient, the Mann-Whitney U test and the Kruskal-Wallis H test with Dunn's post-hoc adjusted by Bonferroni were used. To determine the associated factors, multivariate analysis was performed using negative binomial regression model. Results: 45.1% of the schoolchildren were female and 87.3% received information on school bullying. In the bivariate analysis, statistically significant differences were found between the ATV scores and age (p = 0.003), sex (p < 0.001), having a social network account (p = 0.009) and year of study (p < 0.001); however, in the multivariate model, the factors associated with the total ATV scores were age (p = 0.012) and sex (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The factors associated with ATV in schoolchildren from public EIs were age and sex, these findings would indicate the need to consider the gender perspective in the analysis of school violence and differentiate interventions according to age.

Cut-off points of anthropometric markers associated with hypertension and diabetes in Peru: Demographic and Health Survey 2018.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the optimal anthropometric cut-off points for predicting the likelihood ratios of hypertension and diabetes in the Peruvian population. DESIGN: A cross-sectional study was performed to establish cut-off values for body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist:height ratio (WHtR) and Conicity index (C-index) associated with increased risk of hypertension and diabetes. Youden's index (YIndex), area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity and specificity were calculated. SETTING: Peruvian households. PARTICIPANTS: Peruvian population over the age of 18 years. RESULTS: A total of 31 553 subjects were included, 57 % being women. Among the women, 53·06 % belonged to the 25- to 44-year-old age group [mean age: 41·66 in men and 40·02 in women]. The mean BMI, WHtR and C-index values were higher in women 27·49, 0·61, 1·30, respectively, while the mean WC value was higher in men 92·12 cm (sd ± 11·28). The best predictors of hypertension in men were the WHtR (AUC = 0·64) and the C-index (AUC = 0·64) with an optimal cut-off point of 0·57 (YIndex = 0·284) and 1·301 (YIndex = 0·284), respectively. Women showed an AUC of 0·63 and 0·61 in the WHtR and C-index, respectively, with an optimal cut-off of 0·61 (YIndex = 0·236) and 1·323 (YIndex = 0·225). The best predictor for diabetes was the C-index: with an AUC = 0·67 and an optimal cut-off of 1·337 (YIndex = 0·346) for men and an AUC = 0·66 and optimal cut-off of 1·313 (YIndex = 0·319) for women. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings show that in Peruvian adults, the WHtR and the C-index have the strongest association with hypertension in both sexes. Likewise, the C-index had the strongest association with diabetes.