Assessment of Nutritional Status of Children Residing In India and Ethiopia

Abstract

Objectives: The present study was conducted to assess the nutritional status of 200 children in age group of 1-3 years of India (Nagpur) and Ethiopia (Nekemte). Methods: Nutritional status of children was assessed in terms of demographic and socio-economic profile, dietary assessment, anthropometric measurement, biochemical and clinical assessment. Results: The study reveals that there were lower consumption in several macro and micro nutrients intake compared to Recommended Dietary Allowances. It is important to note that the milk intake was negligible in Nekemte i.e. 7.2% only. The intakes of micronutrients such as β carotene, calcium, riboflavin and iron were inadequate in Nekemte i.e, about 9.68%, 24.10%, 36.67% and 57.55% of RDA. The intakes of micronutrients such as β carotene, zinc, and iron were inadequate in Nagpur i.e, about 6.55%, 30.80% 36.67% and 48.44% of RDA. According to Gomez’s classification of weight for age shows that 39% and 44% of the children suffered from severe malnourished in Nagpur and Nekemte. The prevalence of Marasmus was 1% and 2% in Nagpur and Nekemte. Conclusions: In conclusion it may be stated that the nutritional status of the children belonging to low socio-economic group is more severe. There is a need to sensitize the community through nutrition and health education, in order to improve household income by providing income generating activities, better housing and sanitary conditions, improving access to health care facilities and literacy status of the community to improve the overall health and nutritional status of the community.