In Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM), which index is used to diagnose 'stunting' according to WHO growth standards?
- A Height-for-age Z-score < -2SD ✓
- B Weight-for-height Z-score < -2SD
- C Weight-for-age Z-score < -2SD
- D MUAC < 11.5 cm in children 6–59 months
Correct answer: A. Height-for-age Z-score < -2SD
Explanation
Stunting (chronic undernutrition/inadequate linear growth) is defined as height-for-age Z-score (HAZ) below -2SD from the WHO median. Wasting (acute undernutrition) is defined as weight-for-height Z-score (WHZ) < -2SD or MUAC < 12.5 cm (severe acute malnutrition: WHZ < -3SD or MUAC < 11.5 cm). Underweight is weight-for-age Z-score (WAZ) < -2SD, which is a composite measure. India's NFHS-5 reported ~35% stunting prevalence among children under 5 years.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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