(A study in population geography)

Abstract

     This study focuses on the negative effects of underweight on children under 5 years old in Al-Kut district, identifying their characteristics and contributing factors. It examines the importance of these factors and their causes, as well as the security implications of underweight in children. The study reveals that underweight children constitute 3.8% of all children in Al-Kut district, with the highest incidence occurring within the first year of life (83.1%). This age group is considered a sensitive stage requiring special healthcare. Several factors contributed to the problem of underweight, including parental factors such as educational attainment and occupation, with mothers generally having lower educational levels than fathers. Other factors include breastfeeding, with mothers' reluctance to breastfeed contributing to the child's overall health. Furthermore, the study highlights the impact of low living standards on families, particularly those with one underweight child. Finally, the study indicates that genetics plays a significant role in the development of underweight conditions, particularly in cases of consanguineous relationships between spouses. For mothers during pregnancy and the extent of their needs within the maternal care programs available at health clinics in the administrative units of the University of Kut, both in rural and urban areas, weight problems have had negative consequences, most notably a high mortality rate and bullying.