A study of nutritional status and common health problems of street children in Bikaner, Rajasthan, India

Abstract

Background: Millions of children throughout the world live on street. These are amongst the most deprived and usually have no access to health care or education. The study aims to assess the nutritional status and to identify common health problems among street children in Bikaner, Rajasthan, India . Methods: In this cross sectional study, conducted in designated slum areas of Bikaner (Rajasthan),a predetermined questionnaire was used to record various factors to assess their health problem, daily income, source of food, clothes, water, place of sleeping and toilet, educational status, immunization status, bad habits, psychological problems etc. Anthropometric measurements (weight and height) were taken to assess malnutrition among street children. Results: Ninety eight percent of children were Hindu and 2% were Muslims. Eighty percent of street children were illiterate. No street child had history of sexual abuse in our study group. 41.5% children had normal nutritional status, while 35.5, 15.5, 6.5% and 1% children were suffering from PEM grade I, II, III and IV respectively. Most common health problems among street children was acute respiratory infection (32%) and 2% children had anemia, skin problems, diarrhea, abdominal pain, worm infestation, dental caries, convulsion, injury, jaundice, tuberculosis, and musculoskeletal pains . Conclusions: The possible cause for PEM and health related problems in street children were extreme poverty, illiteracy, lack of Water and Sanitation facilities, exposure to polluted environment, lack of proper immunization and lack of knowledge to clinic site.