Undernutrition In Tribal Under-Five Children: A Multi-Centric Cross-Sectional Analysis Of Determinants And Public Health Implications
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64252/w5bct113Keywords:
Undernutrition, tribal children, under-five, stunting, wasting, underweight, maternal health, child nutrition, risk factorsAbstract
Introduction: Undernutrition among under-five children remains a major public health concern in India, particularly within tribal communities. Tribal populations face heightened vulnerability due to poor socio-economic status, maternal illiteracy, inadequate feeding practices, and limited access to health services. This study was conducted to assess the prevalence and risk factors of undernutrition among under-five children in the tribal communities of Andra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh.
Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 200 under-five children using purposive sampling. Data collection tools included a structured interview schedule covering demographic, maternal, and child health variables, and anthropometric measurements analyzed using WHO Anthro software. Nutritional status was assessed using standard indices weight-for-age, height-for-age, and weight-for-height. Data were analyzed using SPSS software with chi-square tests to determine associations (p < 0.05).
Results: The study revealed that 68% of children suffered from at least one form of undernutrition: 42.5% were underweight, 40% stunted, and 32.5% wasted. Significant associations were found between undernutrition and birth weight (p = 0.009), dietary pattern (p = 0.014), and maternal education (p = 0.006). Contributing risk factors included early marriage, adolescent pregnancy, maternal anemia, improper weaning, and poor socioeconomic conditions.
Discussion: The findings align with national studies and reaffirm that undernutrition in tribal children is multifactorial, influenced by maternal, child-related, and social determinants. The study supports the hypothesis that demographic variables significantly influence nutritional status. Addressing these factors requires targeted interventions focused on maternal health, nutrition education, and community engagement to mitigate childhood undernutrition in tribal regions.
