Socio-demographic determinants of undernutrition of preschool children attending anganwadis in rural ICDS block, North Kerala

Abstract

Child growth and health is recognized as an important public health indicator for monitoring nutritional status and health in a population.1. To study the socio demographic profile of the preschool children (3-6years) attending anganwadis in Kunnamangalam. 2. To study the association between socioeconomic status and undernutrition.A cross sectional study was done among 30 anganwadis from June 2014 to June 2015 by cluster sampling method. Data regarding socio demographic factors, prevalence of undernutrition were collected by using a pre tested semi structured questionnaire. Socio economic status of the study population was classified according to Modified Kuppu Swamy’s Scale. Education, Occupation and total monthly family income of the highest earning member was used for the stratification into various classes. Data analysed using SPSS version 16 software.Out of 300 children, 204 (68%) belonged to Upper lower strata, 74 (24.7%) were lower middle, 19 (6.3%) were upper middle and 3(1%) belonged to upper class. Prevalence of underweight children was significantly higher in children among those belonging to lower socioeconomic status.The study suggests to focus on preschool children for growth monitoring especially in low socioeconomic families, approaching them through the help of anganwadis, and educating mothers of low socioeconomic status on health on promoting program for underfives.