A Feasibility and Pilot Study in Nutrition Intervention for Child Health- Bangalore, India
Journal Title: Indian Journal of Nutrition - Year 2018, Vol 5, Issue 2
Abstract
Indian schoolchildren residing in slum areas of Bangalore are at high risk of malnutrition thereby impairing their physical and mental development. These stunted and wasted schoolchildren of Parikrma Humanity Foundation may struggle to reach their full potential because of their poor nutritional status. Protein energy malnutrition is very common in these children due to insufficient protein and energy stores. Micronutrient deficiencies of iron, zinc, and vitamin A predominantly found in these children are known to affect their growth and cognition. Long-term malnutrition may lead to diet related disorders; increase morbidity and mortality; and kick-start a cycle of poor health and poverty. Malnutrition is a serious health problem affecting millions of children worldwide and the rates have been appalling in developing countries, especially in India. A feasibility and pilot study in nutrition intervention was implemented using convenience sampling in 2013 that aimed to explore perceptions and attitudes along with suggestions of students, doctors, parents, caterers, school staff and community development officers involved in the plan and structure of a full scale ‘Nutrition for Children’ program. This program conducted by the Singapore International Foundation volunteers was conducted in partnership with the Parikrma schools. Positive study outcomes justified an imperative need for continuation of a culturally appropriate community nutrition intervention to train all beneficiaries and key stakeholders to: understand key nutrition principles; impart culinary nutrient conservation skills; and act as positive role models to optimize the nutritional status of these schoolchildren. Valuable study insights and recommendations spurred the urgency for the volunteers to further plan, develop and evaluate a three-year (2014-2017) school-based nutrition intervention to build a more supportive environment for these malnourished children. By creating sustainable nutritional programs to motivate, empower and inspire the local community towards better healthy eating and hygiene practices, the malnutrition rates may be improved among schoolchildren.
Authors and Affiliations
Wong E
Keywords
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