Socio-demographic differentials of cognitive development and nutrition among school children: evidence from the tribal areas of Jharkhand, India

Abstract

Abstract Background This study attempts to assess the differentials of cognitive development and nutrition of school children in tribal areas of Jharkhand, India. Methodology A cross-sectional study was carried out in 16 schools of Jharkhand amongst 962 children during the period of November to December 2017. Anthropometry, hemoglobin and IQ tests were assessed along-with their socio-demographic characteristics using standard procedures after obtaining their guardian’s consent. Various tests of significance were used such as an independent sample t-test and Fisher’s exact test along with multinomial logistic regression for determination of predictors for low-normal to borderline IQ among school children. Results Stunting and thinness were noted in 38% and 35% children, respectively, whereas anemia and low IQ were observed in more than 4/5th of the total children assessed. Anemia was more common in children >12 years of age and IQ was lower in tribal ethnic children (p < 0.05) amongst socio-demographic characteristics. Among the predictors, only tribal ethnicity appeared to be associated with low IQ [odds ratio (OR)-1.85; 95% confidence interval (CI) – 1.25, 2.75]. Conclusion Despite various nutrition-related programs being run in government schools, the malnutrition and hemoglobin status of the children presents a poor picture. Cognitive development of children particularly tribal children is unsatisfactory and needs to be worked upon by government agencies.