Impact of Nutritional Deficiency on Ocular Health Among Under-five Children in Benue State

Nutritional deficiencies, particularly vitamin A deficiency, are strongly associated with xerophthalmia, night blindness, and other ocular conditions that disproportionately affect young children in sub-Saharan Africa. This study investigates the impact of nutritional status on ocular health among children under five years of age in selected primary healthcare centers in Benue State, North Central Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive design will be employed, involving 320 children whose nutritional status has been assessed through anthropometric measurements and dietary recall from their caregivers. Ocular examinations will include assessment of the conjunctiva, cornea, and test for night blindness using the history-taking method adapted for caregivers. Blood spot cards will be collected for subsequent serum retinol analysis where resources permit. Data will be analyzed with chi-square tests and logistic regression to examine the association between nutritional indicators and ocular findings. The study expects to find elevated rates of conjunctival xerosis and Bitot's spots among children with documented micronutrient deficiencies. Findings will be communicated to the Benue State Primary Healthcare Development Agency and relevant nutrition intervention programs to integrate ocular health assessments into child welfare services. This study reinforces the critical link between nutrition and vision in early childhood and provides evidence-based recommendations for reducing nutritional blindness in Nigeria's North Central zone. Keywords: vitamin A deficiency, xerophthalmia, nutritional deficiency, under-five children, Benue State