Original Research Article
Year: 2018 | Month: September | Volume: 8 | Issue: 9 | Pages: 175-182
Nutritional Status of Underprivileged Children: A Study of Bal Ashram, R S Pura, Jammu
Prof. Jasbir Singh1, Dr. Archana Bhat2
1Director, 2Research Assistant,
Centre for Study of Social Exclusion and Inclusive Policy, University of Jammu
Corresponding Author: Dr. Archana Bhat
ABSTRACT
Low height for- age or stunting reflects a failure to reach a minimal stature as per standard norms, is a key indicator of chronic under nutrition. Stunted children suffer from impaired growth with permanent health consequences in their adult life, and face a high risk of morbidity and mortality (Goudet et al., 2015). The present study was conducted in Bal Ashram, Ranbir Singh Pura, Jammu District, where inmates of Ashram were assessed for anthropometric and nutritional status. 50 inmates including 36 boys and 14 girls (3-18 yrs of age) were taken for the study. Anthropometric status was checked by using standardized anthropometric methods and nutritional status was assessed by 24 hour recall diet dairies. Results revealed that though mean Body Mass Index (BMI) was normal but height for age and weight for age was less than standard norms taken (NCHS, 2010). It was also found that average calories intake by respondents was far less than required dietary allowances. More health programs focusing on good nutrition is the need of hour to create awareness about nutrition and health.
Key words: Health, Slum, Anthropometry, Nutrition, Stunted