Background

Growth monitoring programs are among the most widely implemented child health interventions worldwide. These programs aim to assess physical growth, identify nutritional deficiencies, detect growth faltering early, and facilitate timely interventions. Despite extensive implementation, variations in program effectiveness and utilization remain significant across regions.

Objective

To assess the effectiveness, coverage, and nutritional outcomes of growth monitoring programs among children under five years of age.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,500 children aged 0–59 months enrolled in growth monitoring programs across six primary healthcare centers between January and December 2024. Data regarding anthropometric measurements, attendance records, nutritional status, parental awareness, and health outcomes were collected and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods.

Results

Program coverage was 81.6%, while regular attendance was observed among 68.3% of participants. Children attending growth monitoring sessions regularly demonstrated significantly lower rates of underweight (12.4% vs. 21.8%), stunting (18.7% vs. 31.4%), and wasting (9.6% vs. 17.3%) compared to irregular attendees. Parental awareness and healthcare worker counseling significantly influenced program utilization (p<0.001).

Conclusion

Growth monitoring programs contribute significantly to early detection of malnutrition and improved child growth outcomes. Strengthening parental education, healthcare worker training, and community engagement may enhance program effectiveness and nutritional outcomes.