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Implementation of the WHO Multicentre Growth Reference Study in India
Nita Bhandari1, Sunita Taneja, Temsunaro Rongsen
1Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi.
Food and Nutrition Bulletin
|April 9, 2004
Summary
The World Health Organization (WHO) Multicentre Growth Reference Study (MGRS) in New Delhi recruited affluent children. Researchers faced unique challenges implementing the MGRS protocol in this diverse Asian setting.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Growth Monitoring
Background:
- The World Health Organization (WHO) Multicentre Growth Reference Study (MGRS) established global growth standards.
- The New Delhi site aimed to represent affluent Asian populations for growth studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement the MGRS protocol in New Delhi, India.
- To recruit children from affluent South Delhi neighborhoods for growth assessment.
Main Methods:
- A door-to-door survey identified eligible households and newborns.
- Longitudinal and cross-sectional components involved screening newborns and children aged 18-71 months.
- 111,084 households were visited over 18 months, with 73 screening sites for newborns.
Main Results:
- Recruitment focused on children with highly educated parents, indicative of unconstrained growth potential.
- The study encountered challenges including numerous birthing facilities and securing medical professional support for feeding recommendations.
Conclusions:
- The New Delhi MGRS site successfully initiated data collection despite logistical hurdles.
- Implementation of the MGRS protocol in diverse Asian urban settings presents unique challenges requiring adaptive strategies.