Nutritional status of pre-school children [1-5 years] in Rural area of Chhattisgarh state.

Abstract

Background: Pre-school children are more vulnerable as any adverse influence operating on them during this period may result in limitation in their development (both physical and mental), some of which at least are irreversible. Nutritional problems among children cause major morbidity and mortality in India. India is home to the largest number of underweight and stunted children in the world. The aims and objectives of the study were to assess prevalence of underweight, stunting and wasting among pre-school children in rural area of Chhattisgarh state.Methods: A community-based, cross- sectional study was conducted among 400 pre-school children in rural area during January-May 2107. Anthropometric measurements were taken. The indicators of nutritional status of children like underweight, stunting and wasting were expressed using WHO conducted ‘Multicentric Growth Reference Study’ (MGRS) standards.Results: Out of 400 children studied, 36% were underweight, 35.5% were stunted and 28.5% were having wasting. More than 50% of girl children were underweight and stunted. Nutritional indicators became worse as age advances.Conclusions: Almost one third of pre-school children were underweight and stunted. Female children were more nutritionally deprived than males. For attainment of best possible nutrition and growth in children, targeted short-term strategies addressing underlying risk factors and more long-term poverty alleviation strategies may be needed.