Ecol Food Nutr. 2025 Apr 8:1-22. doi: 10.1080/03670244.2025.2490530. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence, determinants, and patterns of malnutrition, specifically stunting, among Scheduled Tribe (ST) children aged 6-10 years in Reasi district of Jammu & Kashmir, India.
METHODS: A cross-sectional study of 200 ST children in Reasi district assessed nutritional status via anthropometry, socio-economic data, and HAZ scores. Independent t-tests and chi-square tests analyzed growth standards and socioeconomic links. SPSS 2024 provided descriptive statistics and prevalence across age and gender.
RESULTS: The study reveals high stunting rates among ST children, affecting both genders. Height and weight fall below WHO and ICMR standards. Key determinants include economic status, family income, sanitation, head of family and employment nature.
CONCLUSION: Findings highlight the urgent need for targeted, multi-sectoral interventions addressing malnutrition among ST children in Reasi. Collaborative efforts by governments, NGOs, and communities in healthcare, education, and food security are crucial to effectively tackle the issue.
PMID:40198144 | DOI:10.1080/03670244.2025.2490530
