Prevalence and Determinants of Nutritional Deficiencies among Children Aged 2–5 Years in Selected Areas of Lucknow

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY: Nutritional deficiency is most widespread affecting health of children’s due to unhygienic food practices; lack of money, traditional beliefs and inappropriate diet are resulting in malnutrition. Despite governmental efforts to address nutritional deficiencies through schemes and programs, such as food fortification and nutritional education, the problem persists. The prevalence rates of undernutrition and anemia among children in states like Uttar Pradesh underscore the urgency of effective interventions. By addressing the root causes of malnutrition and implementing evidence-based strategies, we can improve the health outcomes and well-being of children, laying the foundation for a healthier future generation. There is a need to integrate readily available nationwide data to reach any denouement and understand the role of fortification of foods to combat micronutrient deficiency for making stronger and age specific recommendations. The aim of the study is to determine the prevalence of micro nutritional deficiencies six preventable micro nutritional deficiencies (vitamin A, vitaminB12, vitamin D, iron, iodine and folic acid) among children under five years old in specific areas of Lucknow, as well as to identify the factors that predispose them to these deficiencies. MATERIALS & METHODS: Quantitative research approach was adapted for this study. Descriptive research design was used to assess the prevalence of nutritional deficiency with diet plan. The population under study comprises children aged 2 to 5 years. The sample size comprises of 100 children, aged between 2 and 5 years from the Mohanlalganj area of Lucknow. Non-probability convenience sampling technique was used to select the samples. In this study, the researcher utilized three tools to collect data from the samples: Tool 1: Demographical data Tool 2: Structured questionnaire method is used to assess the pre-disposing factors of nutritional deficiency Tool 3: Modified recommended dietary allowances (RDA) for children according to ICMR to assess the prevalence of nutritional deficiency through diet plan. The collected data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, aligning with the study's objectives and hypotheses. RESULTS: Regarding the prevalence of nutritional deficiency, significant findings emerged. The majority (47%) of 2-3-year-old children showed deficiencies according to recommended daily allowances. Male children (55%) exhibited higher deficiencies compared to females. Hindu children (77%) and those from joint families (61%) also displayed higher deficiency rates. Furthermore, rural areas (70%) showed a higher prevalence of deficiencies compared to urban areas. the birth order of the baby emerges as a significant predisposing factor associated with iron deficiency in children under the age of five. Additionally, the number of children in the family, the age at which breastfeeding ceases, and the spacing between childbirths are all found to be significant factors related to energy deficiency. Furthermore, the occupation of the mother demonstrates statistical significance in relation to protein deficiency at a p-value of 0.05. However, the analysis indicates that all other identified predisposing factors for nutritional deficiency do not reach significance at the 0.05 level. These findings underscore the multifaceted nature of nutritional deficiencies in young children and highlight the importance of considering various factors in preventive and intervention strategies. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of malnutrition is still significant despite the implementation of a number of national nutrition programs, including ICDS, POSHAN Abhiyaan, food fortification initiatives, and vitamin supplementation programs. Preventable micronutrient deficiencies continue to be a significant public health concern. The results of this study indicate that better implementation, community involvement, and ongoing monitoring are necessary to augment current programs. To achieve long-lasting changes in child nutrition, nutrition education, dietary variety, and behavior change communication strategies must be integrated.