Atwiine Barnabas’s research while affiliated with Mbarara University of Science and Technology and other places

Introduction Zinc deficiency (ZnD) impairs the development of acquired immunity and contributes to growth failure in children under five years of age. However, the prevalence of ZnD and its association with immunity in this age group in Uganda have not been well explored. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ZnD and explore the associations between low serum zinc levels and total white blood cell count, differential cell counts, and levels of IL-1 and IL-2 in children aged 12 to 59 months. Methods In this cross-sectional study, we enrolled children aged 12 to 59 months upon admission to the pediatrics ward of Masaka Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH), located in Masaka City, Southern Uganda. Anthropometric measurements were taken and interpreted using the WHO growth standards charts for age and sex. Whole blood cell counts, serum zinc levels, CRP, and IL-2 and IL-4 were measured. Student’s t-test, Mann-Whitney test, and correlation coefficients were used to assess relationships between variables. Results A total of 40 children (mean age 27.8 (SD 10.6) months; 50% boys) were enrolled. Nearly a third (13/40) of the children were malnourished (22.5% stunted and 12.5% wasted), and 82.5% had anemia (Hb <11.0 g/dL). The prevalence of ZnD was 40.6%. Serum zinc levels showed a positive correlation with total white blood cell count (rs = 0.41, p = 0.02) and lymphocyte count (rs = 0.43, p = 0.01). However, no association was found between ZnD and levels of IL-2 or IL-4. Conclusions The study revealed a high prevalence of ZnD, with serum zinc levels correlating with both total white blood cell and T cell counts, but not with IL-2 levels, in children under five years of age at the time of admission. We recommend the routine inclusion of ZnD assessment and treatment in the care of sick children in the region. Additionally, a larger multicenter longitudinal study is needed to further evaluate the association between malnutrition and health outcomes in this age group.

Zinc Deficiency And Associated Effects On The Immunity Of Admitted Children Under-5 In Masaka Regional Referral Hospital. Background: Zinc is an essential micronutrient with a variety of physiological functions. Zinc deficiency (ZnD) affects development of acquired immunity and contributes to failure to grow in children under 5. Still, there is paucity of data on the zinc status of children under 5 years of age in Uganda, particularly in hospital settings. Serum zinc status, and the association between serum zinc levels and the immune system in children aged 12 to 59 months were assessed. Methods: This cross-sectional, laboratory-based study enrolled 40 children as they were admitted to the paediatric ward of Masaka RRH. Anthropometric measurements were taken and interpreted according to WHO growth standards charts appropriate for age and sex. Serum zinc, albumin and C-reactive protein were determined by flame absorption spectrophotometry and photometric methods respectively. Whole blood cell count was measured using an automated haemanalyser, and interleukin-2 and -4 levels enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Student’s t, Mann Whitney tests and correlation coefficients were used to determine relationships between variables. Results: The mean age of the children was 27.8 (SD 10.6) months and females were older than males (P<0.003). Nearly, a third (13/40) were undernourished, 22.5% stunted 20% wasted, and 82.5 % were anemic (Hb <11.0g/dL). The prevalence of ZnD was 40.6%. Serum zinc levels were positively correlated with total white blood cell (rs= 0.41, P= 0.02) and lymphocyte (rs= 0.43, P= 0.01) counts. Overall, children had high levels of IL-2 and IL-4, but both were not associated with ZnD. Conclusion: The high prevalence of ZnD associated with low lymphocyte count among the under 5 children admitted to the paediatric ward of Masaka RRH is suggestive of a bigger problem in the community. Regular assessment especially of children aged below 24 months for possible zinc deficiency should be done, and zinc supplemented as an intervention, where there is high suspicion of the ZnD not only for those suffering from diarrhea.