Konyalıgil, D.B.Koc, N.Çalışkan, D.Kara-Uzun, A.Şenel, E.01. Atılım University2025-12-052025-12-0520251471-243110.1186/s12887-025-06168-52-s2.0-105020750979https://doi.org/10.1186/s12887-025-06168-5https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14411/10979Background: This study aimed to evaluate the relationships among nutritional intake, malnutrition, and growth and development in children under 2 years of age with esophageal atresia. Methods: A survey was administered to the parents of healthy children and children with esophageal atresia who were followed up at Ankara City Hospital Pediatric Surgery Polyclinic. Nutrition education was provided, a follow-up visit was scheduled three months later, and the assessments were repeated. Results: The study included 20 children with esophageal atresia and 40 controls under 2 years of age. Height-for-age, weight-for-age and head circumference measurements were significantly lower in children with esophageal atresia than in the control group (p < 0.05). At the second interview, triceps skinfold thickness for age and mid-upper arm circumference for age were also significantly lower in children with esophageal atresia compared to control group (p < 0.05). Statistically significant differences were observed in dietary and food consistency preferences, eating status, and swallowing function (p < 0.05). In addition, according to the Pediatric Eating Assessment Tool-10 and Screening Tool for Risk of Impaired Nutritional Status and Growth, a high prevalence of swallowing disorders and a moderate risk of malnutrition were identified in children with esophageal atresia (p < 0.05). At the end of follow-up, significant increases in weight-for-age and height-for-age z scores were observed over time in children with esophageal atresia (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the percentages meeting daily requirements for protein, carbohydrates and dietary fiber increased over time (p < 0.05). Swallowing symptoms improved over time in children with esophageal atresia, and their current dietary patterns remained significantly different from those of the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Appropriate nutritional support delivered with a multidisciplinary approach and long-term follow-up can help children to achieve a growth rate appropriate for their peers. © The Author(s) 2025.eninfo:eu-repo/semantics/openAccessDevelopmentEsophageal AtresiaGrowthMalnutritionNutritionArticle