European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess the factors influencing nutritional status of children (7-9 years) belonging to low and middle socio-economic strata of Mawana, Uttar Pradesh. Analysis of their diet revealed a predominantly cereal pulse based diet and low consumption of milk, green leafy vegetables, fruits and animal foods. Mean daily intake of energy, iron and vitamin A was below recommended dietary allowances. Nutritional status in terms of BMI for age Z-score revealed 56% subjects showed thinness (z score -2SD to -3SD) and 2% showed severe thinness (z score <-3SD) while 41% subjects were normal belonging to BMI for age z score +1SD to -2SD. BMI for age z score was significantly affected by energy intake, total NAR, total income of family and mothers’ education. Twelve percent subjects also had clinical signs of PEM. Sixty one percent subjects had one or more clinical signs of Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA). Anemic status of subjects was significantly influenced by iron intake, energy intake and total NAR. None of the subjects had any clear clinical signs of Vitamin A deficiency.