A Study on Nutritional and Immunization Status of under Five Children in an Urban Slum of Bhubaneswar, Odisha

Background: According to National Family Health Survey - 3 (NFHS-3, 2005-2006), in India, percentage of children (under 3 years) who are stunted are 38 percent, wasted are 19 percent, and underweight are 46 percent.

Objectives: To assess the nutritional and immunization status among under 5 children and to identify the associated factors.

Methodology: In a community based cross sectional survey conducted during May - June 2011 in an urban slum area of Bhubaneswar, a total of 124 children were included. Data on age, sex, family size, socio economic status, per capita monthly income, no. of siblings, H/O passing worms etc. were collected. Their height and weight were recorded along with assessment of immunization status.

Results: It was found that 28.2% of under 5 children were low weight for age. Stunting and wasting was found in 23.4% and 21.8% of children respectively. Under nutrition was more among girls (35.18%) and children of 3-5 years age (29.41%). Under nutrition was found significantly higher among children of illiterate mother (P=0.026), working mother (P=0.011), low social class (P=0.015), children with more no. of siblings (P=0.046) and higher birth order (P=0.023). The other co-morbidities observed were worm infestation (8.06%), anaemia (8.06%), diarrhoea (5.64%) and vitamin A deficiency (1.61%). 43.33% of under 5 children were completely immunized at one year of age and 41.11% were partially immunized.

Conclusion: Health and nutritional education and behaviour change communication activities can be undertaken in the slum for early recognition of under-nutrition.