Association between Feeding Difficulties, Growth Parameters, and Maternal Stress among Children with Congenital Heart Defects: A Cross-Sectional Study
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Objective: Feeding difficulties are common in children with Congenital heart defects (CHDs). The purpose of this study was to explore the association between feeding difficulties, growth parameters, and maternal stress in children with CHDs.
Methods and Materials: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Mosul Center for Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery from October 2025 to February 2026. A non-probability convenience sample of 100 children and their mothers was selected according to the study criteria. Feeding difficulties were assessed using the Montreal Children's Hospital Nutrition Scale, and maternal stress levels were measured with the Parental Stress Scale. Anthropometric measurements, such as height and weight, were recorded for each participant. Growth indicators were evaluated using standard growth charts. Data were analyzed using SPSS (version 27).
Findings: Most children (64%) showed severe feeding difficulties, while 5% had mild and 6% moderate levels. Regarding growth parameters, 51% were underweight, and 46% were stunted, according to the WHO growth chart. Regarding maternal stress, the mean score was 55.42 ± 15.26, reflecting variability in stress levels among mothers. Spearman’s rho correlation analysis revealed a statistically significant positive correlation between feeding difficulties and maternal stress (rₛ = 0.808, p = 0.01), weight-for-age (rₛ = 0.343, p = 0.01), and height-for-age (rₛ = 0.385, p = 0.01).
Conclusion: Feeding difficulties are common in children with congenital heart defects and are significantly associated with growth parameters and maternal stress.
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