Nutritional Status Assessment of Primary School Children in Different Socioeconomic Areas

Nutritional status is a key indicator in children’s health, since it shows both muscular growth and dietary consumption. The early school years are an essential period for both mental and physical development. This study evaluated the nutritional value and amount of food consumed at several mealtimes in order to compare elementary school students from rich and low socioeconomic backgrounds. To assess the differences in nutritional status between the two groups, the association between dietary intake and different growth indicators has been studied. A study was conducted among (n= 180) primary school children aged (6, 7, 8, and 9) years from poor (n= 90) and rich (n= 90) socioeconomic statuses. Socioeconomic data were gathered from questionnaires administered to their parents. Common anthropometric measurements used in a study like this are weight, height, and mid-upper arm circumference. The questions to determine food and nutrient intakes included in the questionnaire concerned the number of consumed meals, types of products eaten by children, and the form conducted by their parents. The results were interpreted according to World Health Organization standards of 2007 growth charts. A total of 180 students from two different primary schools discovered that the highermean of food consumption was recorded in rich states compared to poor children. Cereal products in both genders from different statuses were taken in maximum amounts, especially during lunchtimes. Anthropometric results showed that most of the students were normal in their growth curves, but older age groups from poor female groups recorded higher rates due to different nutritional factors.