Evaluating the Impact of Nutritional and Socioeconomic Factors on Cognitive and Academic Performance in age 6-13 years

Abstract

Nutritional and socioeconomic status is a critical health concern in childhood due to its direct impact on cognitive and academic performance. This study aimed to examine the relationship between nutritional status, cognition, and socioeconomic factors among schoolchildren in different regions of Faisalabad, Pakistan. The study included 225 students aged 6-11 years from both urban and rural areas. Anthropometric measurements and z-scores for weight-for-age, height-for-age, and BMI-for-age were calculated using WHO growth standards. Socioeconomic status and dietary history were assessed through a general questionnaire, food frequency questionnaire, and food group records. Cognitive and academic performance was measured using the ASER method, focusing on reading, math, and grade levels. Data analysis included both descriptive and inferential statistics. The study found that 26% of the children were malnourished, with higher rates among older children. A significant 79.6% of the children were classified as middle class due to low income levels and large family sizes. Malnutrition was more prevalent among children whose parents had secondary rather than tertiary education. Over half of the children did not meet their daily requirements for cereals, fruits, and meat. Healthy children generally performed better academically, with 93% of them achieving A grades. The relationship between weight, height, and BMI varied by age. These findings suggest a strong association between nutritional status, socioeconomic factors, and the cognitive and academic performance of children. The study also revealed that many children had dietary intakes below the recommended levels.