A Study of Socio-Demographic Factors Effecting under nutrition in Under Five children of Slum in Mysuru−An Exploratory Study

Malnutrition not only reflects health of children but it also represents the socioeconomic, demographic and psychological features of the family.

To determine Socio-demographic factors effecting Under nutrition in under five children of slum area, Medhar block

An Exploratory study conducted in urban slum from August 9^th to October31^st 2017. 10 Anganwadi workers and helpers were interviewed about malnourished children in their areas. 94 mothers of were randomly selected and interviewed about their antenatal and perinatal care. Anthropometric examination of 64, 1–5 years children was done. Focus group discussion done among 22 mothers and details of diet given to children were discussed. Data collected were compiled, anthropometric data entered in excel and WHO anthro and association with other factors were analyzed using chi-square tests, and t test in SPSS 24.

Under nutrition seen in 30% of under five children. Stunting in 34% and wasting in 14%. Stunting associated with antenatal weight gain (P 0.02) and birth weight (P 0.04). Wasting associated with age of mother at pregnancy and birth weight. 16% of mothers delivered low birth weight babies and 17% of them stopped breast feeding before 1year. Nutrition provided to children were inadequate.

Awareness on antenatal care, exclusive breast feeding, supplementary food and adequate nutritious diet for children needs to be strengthened. Health workers should be trained regarding communication and health education, so that they convey proper knowledge to mothers.