A study on dual burden of malnutrition among school going adolescents of Ahmedabad city

Abstract

Background: The dual burden of adolescent malnutrition refers to the double burden of under- and over-nutrition coinciding within a population, leading to adverse health conditions. Aim and Objectives: To determine the magnitude and lifestyle determinants of malnutrition among school-going adolescents. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 264 adolescents (10–19 years) were randomly selected from four higher secondary schools in Ahmedabad city from September 2017 to October 2017. The interview was done using the pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire in the local language (Gujarati). Weight (kg) and height (cm) were taken. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated as per the formula BMI = weight (kg)/height (m2). Results: In the present study, 34 (12.9%) were overweight, and 67 (25.4%) were underweight. The prevalence of overweight was higher among females (16.5%). Life style factors like sleeping time (hours/day), watching TV, using PC and mobile (hours/day), physical activity (min/day), skipping breakfast, fast food consumption, and the number of meals eaten in a day have a significant role in the nutrition of adolescents. Conclusion: Regular screening of the adolescents should be done, and malnourished adolescents should be treated via a nutrition rehabilitation program at home and school as early as possible.