Assessment of Nutritional Status of Anganwadi Children in Coastal Karnataka: A CrossSectional Study

Abstract

Backrground: In India half of the under-5 mortality is attributed to undernutrition. As a consequence of malnutrition numerous health issues are seen in under-5 children. EEarly intervention during this period can reduce the morbidity and mortality. This Study aims to estimate the prevalence of Stunting, underweight, wasting and Thinness among anganwadi children in Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka.Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 564 anganwadi children in Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka. Data collection was carried out using a pre-tested questionnaire. Anthropometric parameters for the assessment of nutritional status of children were measured using standard guidelines. Results: Boys weighed slightly more than girls in the age groups 3 & 4 years whereas girls’ weight was more for age groups 5-7 years. Except for the age group of 6 years, boys were found to be taller than girls. The prevalence of Stunning, Under-weight, Wasting and Thinness in our study was found to be 25.9%, 22%, 27.8% and 24.1% respectively. The prevalence of all 4 parameters were higher among age group of 5 &6 year old children.Conclusion:Stunning, Under-weight, Wasting and Thinness are theissues which requires our country to ensure implementation of policies which are practical and effective and also the interventions across the life cycle that take into account the variations and the context of each state in our countr