Incidencia del Programa Vaso de Leche en la nutrición de niños menores de tres años, Bambamarca-Perú

Ismael Suárez-Medina; César Suárez; Brendy Uria · Revista Acciones Médicas (2026) · DOI: 10.35622/j.ram.2026.02.002

Resumen

Chronic malnutrition in early childhood represents one of the most critical public health challenges in rural areas of Peru, since the first three years of life are decisive for cognitive and physical development. In this regard, the present study aimed to evaluate the incidence of the food ration provided by the Glass of Milk Program (PVL) on the nutritional status of infants under 36 months of age in the city of Bambamarca, Cajamarca. A quantitative study was conducted, with a descriptive-correlational and cross-sectional design. The sample consisted of 122 direct beneficiaries of the program. A critical prevalence of chronic malnutrition was identified (41.8%), contrasting with only 32% of children with normal nutritional status. Likewise, the coexistence of excess malnutrition (11.5% overweight) and mixed cases of malnutrition and overweight (7.4%) was detected. Regarding the composition of food assistance, 67.2% of the cases received the standard ration (milk and oats). As for household dietary habits, the consumption of predominantly energy-dense foods prevailed at breakfast (72.1%) and lunch (43.4%), showing a deficit in the intake of body-building foods (proteins). Consequently, the ration provided by the social program does not exert a statistically significant influence on improving the nutritional status of the population studied (p = 0.167). The findings suggest that state food assistance is insufficient on its own, possibly due to macronutritional imbalance within the family environment.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional de Cajamarca; Universidad Nacional de Frontera