Trends in Nutritional Status of School Children in Eastern Nepal: A Longitudinal Assessment over the Five Years (2017-2021)


  •  Dinesh Prasad Joshi Ratala    
  •  Sharad Chandra Rai    
  •  Mahesh Sharki    

Abstract

Introduction/Background: Nutritional screening is a vital tool for assessing the health and well-being of school children, as it provides crucial data on their nutritional status. Longitudinal assessments allow for the monitoring of nutritional trends over time and facilitate the development of targeted dietary goals.

Aim/Objective: This study evaluated the longitudinal nutritional status of children enrolled at YouMe School, located in the rural Khotang district of Eastern Nepal.

Methodology: The research team deployed a study design with open recruitment. The team recorded one or more observations per individual. Annual nutritional screenings were systematically conducted from 2017 to 2021, covering students from Nursery to Grade 7. The primary outcome variables included weight-for-height Z-scores (WHZ) and Body Mass Index Z-scores (BMI-Z). Data analysis involved linear mixed models adjusted for potential confounders.

Results: One thousand thirty-two observations were recorded over five years, comprising students from Nursery to Grade 7. The findings revealed progressive improvements in nutritional status, demonstrated by increases in weight-for-age z-scores (from -1.1 in 2017 to -0.6 in 2021), BMI z-scores (from -1.4 to -0.4), and weight-for-height z-scores (from -1.3 to -0.08) among children at YouMe School. Adjusted analyses confirmed significant improvements in both WHZ and BMI Z-scores over time. Additionally, the gender disparity in nutritional status decreased substantially over time (β=-0.01, p<0.01).

Conclusion: Five consecutive years of nutritional screenings at YouMe School in Eastern Nepal enabled an assessment of student nutritional well-being from Nursery to Grade 7. The school's sustained initiatives likely contributed to improved nutritional outcomes and reduced gender disparities. An integration of educational programs, targeted nutritional initiatives, and a supportive school environment can expedite sustainable dietary gains.



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