Assessment of Malnutrition among Students of Various Districts of West Bengal: A Review

Abstract

According to World Health Organization (WHO), “Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social

wellbeing and not merely an absence of disease”. Energy is required for all physiological processes which

are made available through breakdown of complex food materials consumed on daily basis. The nutrition

available through food consumption is closely related to the overall health and well being of a person. In the

state of West Bengal, poor nutritional status of children, especially in rural areas is becoming a major cause

of concern. Not only does it contribute to overall underperformance in schools (including increasing school

drop outs), it also predisposes these children towards increasing chances of getting Non-communicable

diseases, such as diabetes. Thus this study analysed published reports on nutritional status of children in

various districts of the state West Bengal. For this purpose, the study explored the district-wise malnutrition

scenario among primary/upper primary students in West Bengal. It was indicated that only less than one

fourth students had appropriate or ideal nutritional status and rest were in various stages of food deprivation

which is a matter of great concern.