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Study of 'at risk' factors in rural under five children
N R Aswar1, P A Hiwarkar, M K Kalpana
1Dept. of PSM, Indira Gandhi Medical College, Nagpur.
Insights
A hospital study found over 64% of rural children under five are
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Child Development
Background:
- Childhood health in rural areas is a significant public health concern.
- Identifying risk factors is crucial for early intervention and improved child outcomes.
- Previous studies highlight various socioeconomic and health-related factors affecting child well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of 'at risk' status among rural children under five.
- To identify the most common risk factors contributing to this status.
- To explore associations between risk factors and socioeconomic determinants like poverty and illiteracy.
Main Methods:
- A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted.
- Data collected included child's weight, health status, birth spacing, and maternal employment.
- Statistical analysis was used to identify significant associations.
Main Results:
- 64.97% of children under five in the rural area were identified as 'at risk'.
- The primary risk factor was low weight (below 70% of reference) at 39.1%.
- Other significant factors included infections, short birth spacing, and substitute childcare. Illiteracy and poverty showed a significant association with 'at risk' status.
Conclusions:
- A high proportion of rural children under five face significant health and developmental risks.
- Malnutrition, infections, and socioeconomic factors are key contributors to this risk.
- Targeted interventions addressing poverty, illiteracy, and healthcare access are essential for this vulnerable population.
Abstract:
1. In the present hospital based cross sectional study, 64.97% under five children in rural area were found to be 'at risk'. 2. The most common 'at risk' factor found in these under five children was weight below 70% of the reference (39.1%) followed by acute gastroenteritis and respiratory infections (19.3%), spacing of less than 2 years (13.2%) and working mothers where the child was being looked after by a substitute (12.2%). 3. More than one 'at risk' factors were found in 43 (21.8%) children. 4. Statistically significant association was found between 'at risk' children and illiteracy and poverty.