Nutritional status of adolescent girls in a rural area of North 24 Parganas district, West Bengal

Indian J Public Health. 2005 Jan-Mar;49(1):18-21.

Abstract

A community based, cross-sectional study was conducted during June to December 1999 in Amdanga block of North 24 Parganas district, West Bengal. Among a sample of 143 adolescent girls (10-19 years), selected through multistage sampling procedure. Data was collected by interviewing the adolescent girls and their parent, whenever necessary using pre-designed, pre-tested, semi-structured schedule. Anthropometric measurements were recorded using standardized methodology as recommended by WHO and standard clinical examination procedures were followed. Standard operational definitions were used. Appropriate statistical tests like Chi-square test were applied as and when required. Overall prevalence of 'thinness' and 'stunting' were found to be 14.7% and 37.8% respectively. There was no significant association (p > 0.05) of thinness or stunting with per capita monthly family income and literacy status of parents. Common nutritional deficiency disorders were anaemia (44.8%), dental caries (25.9%), angular stomatitis (15.4%) etc.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Nutritional Physiological Phenomena*
  • Adult
  • Child
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Growth Disorders / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • India / epidemiology
  • Malnutrition / epidemiology*
  • Nutritional Status*
  • Prevalence
  • Rural Population
  • Thinness / epidemiology