Assessment of Malnutrition among Students of Various Districts of West Bengal: A Review

Abstract

According to World Health Organization (WHO), “Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely an absence of disease”. Energy is required for all physiological processes which are made available through breakdown of complex food materials consumed on daily basis. The nutrition available through food consumption is closely related to the overall health and well being of a person. In the state of West Bengal, poor nutritional status of children, especially in rural areas is becoming a major cause of concern. Not only does it contribute to overall underperformance in schools (including increasing school drop outs), it also predisposes these children towards increasing chances of getting Non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes. Thus this study analysed published reports on nutritional status of children in various districts of the state West Bengal. For this purpose, the study explored the district-wise malnutrition scenario among primary/upper primary students in West Bengal. It was indicated that only less than one fourth students had appropriate or ideal nutritional status and rest were in various stages of food deprivation which is a matter of great concern.