Nutritional and health status of jenukuruba tribal children in Mysore district

Abstract

Introduction: Nutritional status is a sensitive indicator of community health and nutrition. It has an important role in determining health status especially in tribal children. Objective: This study was done to assess nutritional and health status among Jenukuruba tribal children in Mysore district. Methods: Community based cross sectional study done over a period of 2 years. 4207 children between the age group of 0-15 years of Jenukuruba tribal community were included. All data were recorded in a predesigned proforma. Anthropometric measurements were recorded. Weight for age, Height for age and BMI were calculated. Clinical examination was done to look for anemia, vitamin A deficiency and other morbidities. 24 hours dietary recall method used to assess dietary intake of calories and proteins. Mean energy and protein intake measured and compared with RDA of Indian standards. Results: 1393 (33.1 %) were stunted with height less than 3rd centile and 1588 (35.7 %) were underweight with weight below 3rd centile using WHO growth charts. 1175(27.9 %) of children were having BMI 95th centile. 53.4% were having varying degrees of protein energy malnutrition. 2083(49.5%) of study population had microcephaly. Mean RDA of energy is deficit in all age groups when compared to revised RDA recommended by ICMR in 2010 for Indians. Conclusion: Health and nutritional status of Jenukuruba tribal children is very poor. Immediate appropriate interventional programmes are needed for improving their health and nutritional status.