Publication:

Nutritional status of under five children attending Anganwadi in rural area of central India

Background Under five mortality rate (U5MR) of India is 36. Malnutrition is most important factor contributing to under five mortality.

Methods 354 children in the age group 0-5 years were included in the study. Weight, height and Mid Upper arm circumference was measured. Data was analyzed by using ‘Anthro’ software. Z scores were calculated. Prevalence of stunting, wasting and underweight was calculated.

Results Prevalence of stunting, wasting and underweight is 35%, 6.4% and 15.8% respectively.

Conclusions Malnutrition is statistically associated with socioeconomic status, maternal literacy and exclusive breast feeding.