Exploring the health dynamics: A comprehensive assessment of malnutrition among tribal children through anthropometric and laboratory evaluations in southern Karnataka

Abstract

Background

Malnutrition continues to be a public health issue majorly affecting the marginalized tribal communities in India. This study aimed to assess the nutritional status of children aged 5–10 years from the Koraga community, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), using anthropometric and laboratory investigations.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 137 children from 122 Koraga tribal households in rural villages of Udupi District. Malnutrition was assessed through anthropometric measurements, including height and weight assessments of the children. Height-for-age (HAZ), Weight-for-age (WAZ) and BMI-for-age (BAZ) Z-scores were calculated using WHO growth standards 2007. Anaemia was evaluated by measuring haemoglobin levels, and stool samples were examined microscopically for worm infestation.

Results

Based on the Z-scores, the prevalence rate of underweight, stunting and thinness was found to be 35.7 %, 16.7 % and 23.3 % respectively. Most (84.6 %) of the children were anaemic with 3.6 %, 69.3 % and 11.7 % having severe, moderate and mild anaemia. However, no worm infestation was detected in any of the stool samples.

Conclusions

This study indicate that malnutrition is a significant public health concern among Koraga tribal children, with a considerable proportion being underweight, stunted and thin. Most children also suffer from anaemia, further worsening their health conditions. These findings emphasize the urgent need for targeted interventional programs to address the nutritional challenges faced by this vulnerable group and to promote better health outcomes.