Comparative Analysis of Total Protein and Albumin in Malnourished and Well-Nourished School Children in Zamfara State

Protein-energy malnutrition remains a persistent nutritional problem among school-age children in the North West zone of Nigeria, with implications for physical growth, cognitive development, and immune competence. This study compares serum total protein and albumin concentrations between malnourished and well-nourished children attending primary schools in Gusau LGA, Zamfara State. Anthropometric measurements including weight, height, mid-upper arm circumference, and body mass index were used to classify two hundred and forty primary school children aged six to twelve years into malnourished and well-nourished groups based on WHO growth reference z-scores. Sixty malnourished children and sixty well-nourished age-matched controls were selected for biochemical analysis. Fasting blood samples were collected under parental consent. Serum total protein was quantified by the biuret colorimetric method, and serum albumin was determined by the bromocresol green dye-binding method. Results show significantly lower serum total protein and albumin in malnourished children compared to well-nourished controls. Mean serum albumin in malnourished children was 24.6 grams per litre compared to 38.9 grams per litre in well-nourished controls, classifying 73 percent of malnourished children as hypoalbuminaemic. Total protein was below 60 grams per litre in 58 percent of malnourished children. Serum albumin showed significant positive correlations with weight-for-age and height-for-age z-scores. The study recommends integration of serum protein screening into school health programmes in Zamfara State. Keywords: total protein, albumin, malnutrition, school children, Zamfara State.