Nutritional status and its determinants among 0-5-year-old children in the district of Sirsa, Haryana, India

BackgroundResearchers have hinted at the importance of balanced nutrition in infancy and childhood for physical development, cognitive function and robust immunity. Poor nutrition is known to produce several negative impacts on the physical and the mental health of the child. Assessing the actual condition of nutritional status of children pertaining to specific area often provide important insights for implementation of strategies necessary for prevention and control of under-nutrition. In this study, nutritional status and its determinants among 0-5-year-old children of Sirsa district of Haryana state were assessed. MethodsA total of 300 children belonging to the age group 0-5 years, residing in the field practice area of Sirsa district of Haryana state, India, were included. A semi-structured questionnaire which was both pre-designed and pre-tested was used for data collection from the mothers of the children. The anthropometric measurements of the children were also taken. ResultsThe prevalence rate of under-nutrition in this study was 7%. All of these children had sub-acute malnutrition (SAM). The anthropometric measurements (weight, height, head circumference, chest circumference, and mid-arm circumference) of under-nutrition children were significantly altered when compared with normal children. Bitots spot (57.1%) and rachitic changes (57.1%), followed by dry conjunctiva (47.6%), pedal oedema (42.9%), and corneal ulceration were common clinical signs/symptoms observed in SAM children. It was noted that a total of 46 (15.3%) children had moderate acute malnutrition (MAM). Upon ophthalmic examination, these children presented with dry conjunctiva. ConclusionThe prevalence of under-nutrition in the form of sub-acute malnutrition and moderate acute malnutrition was 7% and 15.3% respectively. Under-nutrition was more common in girl child compared to male child. This study highlights the importance of conduction of regular screening program for early identification of extent and severity of under-nutrition in young children. Early identification of under-nutrition will facilitate the timely initiation of interventions necessary for normal growth and development of the child.