Morbidity Profile of Children at a Construction Site: Reaching the last Mile

Background- A research study was planned to assess social determinants of health affecting well-being of children residing in labour camps. The objectives of the study were-1.Understanding Morbidity Profile of children residing in labour camps of construction site.2.Assessment of social determinants based on certain components of SAFE MODEL. Methodology- A Retrospective descriptive study was carried out on survey of 118 families and pediatric mega camp data of 311 children from December 2023- March 2024 living at a construction site. Study presents morbidity profile of children in form of 4 D’s (Defects, Diseases, Developmental delays, Deficiencies) and qualitatively analyses on some social determinants assessed on basis of SAFE model. Descriptive statistics and WHO reference indicators for anthropometry were used. Observations of survey are presented as qualitative data in form of comments. Results/Conclusion-26.37% children were suffering from childhood diseases and 28.67% children were having micro nutrient deficiencies. 0.64 % had birth defects, 0.32% had developmental delays. The percentage of underweight children in 0-6 years age group was 30%, in age group of 7-10years were 48% were stunted.22.50% children had acute respiratory infections. 55% of children had some kind of disease or deficiency. Strategies adopted to survive in new and hostile environment lead to neglect of many important aspects like security, well-being and health of children. We recommend improvement in living conditions of families at labour camp. Effective child protection, education policies, disease protection and health promotion, can go a long way in improving the overall well-being of the families in the lower socio-economic strata.