A Comparative Study of the Nutritional Status of Adolescents in Residential and Non-Residential Tribal Secondary Schools
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37506/ijphrd.v12i4.16508Keywords:
Tribal, Adolescents, School, Residential, Nutrition, Health.Abstract
Background: Tribal populations lack access to health services and proper educational opportunities due to
geographical, social and economic reasons. Among tribal population, malnutrition is prevalent resulting in
vicious cycle of morbidities and mortalities. To tackle these issues, various interventions are being done at
all levels. Establishment of residential schools along with structured meals and Mid-Day Meal program for
non-residential schools are few of many such strategies. This study was undertaken to study the effect of
these interventions in a tribal district.
Materials and Methods: It is a record based retrospective cross-sectional study. Health records of class
VIII students from a residential and a non-residential (40 each) were analysed for desired variables. Data
was compiled using Microsoft Excel 2016 and analysed using SPSS version 22.
Results: More proportion of adolescent tribal students in non-residential schools had history of worm
infestation and diarrhoea in the last six months. Similar pattern was observed for signs of deficiencies of
Vitamin B and Vitamin C. Significant difference was observed between food consumption and food diversity
pattern being followed.
Conclusion: The findings of the study reiterate the need of strengthening of nutrition and hygiene centric
school health program for tribal adolescents.