Title: Nutritional Profile of Children in Orphanages of Kashmir Valley: A Cross sectional Study
Authors: Sameena Yousuf Dar, Rauf-ur Rashid Kaul, Mohamad Rafiq Mir, Tawheeda Ara
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v5i6.120
Abstract
Objective:- To assess the prevalence of nutritional problems among children living in orphanages of Kashmir Valley. Design and Settings:- A cross sectional study design was adopted and the study was conducted in orphanages in 6 randomly selected districts of Kashmir Valley during April 2014 - March 2015. Assessment of factors that might be associated with nutritional problems in the defined population was carried out simultaneously.
Results:- Among 450 children, prevalence of underweight was found to be 37 % whereas that of overweight was 2.4 %. It was further observed that the prevalence of stunting among study participants was 37.3 %.The prevalence of underweight was found to have a statistically significant association with age, orphanage setting, duration of stay in institution and personal hygiene.The prevalence of overweight was found to have a statistically significant association with type of orphanage, orphanage setting and protein – calorie intake. A statistically significant association was observed between stunting and age, gender, duration of stay in institution and orphanage setting.
Conclusion:- Prevalence of underweight and stunting among children living in orphanages is very high. This calls for immediate attention and urgent action with regard to the nutritional needs of this marginalised section of the society.
Keywords:- Orphans, Nutritional status, Underweight, Overweight, Stunting.
