PREVALENCE AND ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS OF MALNUTRITION AMONG UNDER FIVE YEARS OF CHILDREN IN THE FIELD PRACTICE AREA OF RURAL HEALTH TRAINING CENTRE, NAILA JAIPUR

Abstract

Objective: Malnutrition among children under the age of five is a global health concern, particularly in developing countries. In India, prevalent nutritional problems include stunting, wasting, anemia, poverty, and low birth weight. These forms of malnutrition have severe consequences for children's health and overall well-being, making malnutrition a leading risk factor for children under five worldwide. Efforts to address malnutrition in developing countries, including India, have been a focus of United Nations' Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) aimed at improving child health outcomes. However, despite these efforts, malnutrition remains a significant concern, particularly among women and children in India. Methods: The study was conducted in the rural community of Jamuwaramgarh block in Rajasthan, Jaipur District, India. The sample size was calculated based on a prevalence rate of malnutrition among under-five children. Ethical approval was obtained, and only mothers with children aged 6-59 mo were included in the study. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select the study participants, including sub-block, primary health centers, villages, and households. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, obstetric history, immunization, breastfeeding, and weaning practices were collected through interviews. Anthropometric measurements were taken, and the data were entered into Microsoft Excel for analysis. Results: The study included 700 children under the age of five. The prevalence of malnutrition among children in the study area was determined. The data collected on socio-demographic characteristics, obstetric history, and other variables were analyzed to identify the determinants of malnutrition among rural Indian children. Conclusion: Malnutrition among children under the age of five remains a significant public health concern, particularly in developing countries like India. Stunting and wasting are prevalent forms of malnutrition, with serious consequences for children's growth and development. Despite efforts to address the issue, progress has been slow, and the prevalence of malnutrition in India is still alarmingly high.