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Prevalence of high risk children under five--a study in rural Delhi
J Singh1, G N Hebsur, U Chawla
1National Institute of Communicable Diseases, Delhi.
Insights
This study identified key risk factors for childhood illness in Delhi, finding that birth intervals and malnutrition significantly increase morbidity risk. Female children were disproportionately affected, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Childhood morbidity remains a significant public health concern in developing regions.
- Identifying specific risk factors is crucial for effective preventive strategies.
- Previous studies have indicated potential links between socioeconomic factors and child health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of risk factors associated with morbidity in under-five children.
- To determine the relationship between identified risk factors and the incidence of illness.
- To assess gender disparities in risk factor prevalence and health outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted involving 678 under-five children in Shahbad Mohammadpur, Delhi.
- Data collected included child demographics, presence of risk factors, and two-week morbidity.
- Statistical analysis was performed to compare morbidity rates between children with and without risk factors.
Main Results:
- 47.9% of children exhibited one or more studied risk factors.
- Female children (54.1%) were significantly more likely to have risk factors than males (43.3%).
- Short birth intervals (<2 years) and malnutrition were the most prevalent risk factors.
- Children with risk factors had significantly higher morbidity rates (21.2%) compared to those without (14.4%).
Conclusions:
- The study confirms the validity of the investigated risk factors in predicting childhood morbidity.
- Targeted interventions addressing birth spacing and nutritional status are essential.
- Gender-specific approaches may be necessary to mitigate health risks in vulnerable populations.
Abstract:
678 under five children were surveyed in village Shahbad Mohammadpur, Delhi. Two weeks morbidity was also recorded. 47.9 per cent children had one or more risk factors studied. Significantly more female children (54.1 per cent) were at risk than male children (43.3 per cent). 433 risk factors were observed in 325 at risk children. Majority of them had one or two risk factors. Birth interval less than two years and malnutrition were most frequent risk factors. At risk children suffered significantly more than not at risk (21.2 per cent vs 14.4 per cent). The results confirmed the validity of the risk factors considered for the study.