Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Background & Method: Globally, malnutrition continues to be a major health problem in developing countries and the most important risk factor for illnesses and death especially among young children. It has been estimated that in India ,65% , i.e. nearly 80 million children under five years of age suffer from varying degrees of malnutrition . Good nutrition is important in establishing and maintaining a good foundation that has implications on a child’s future physical and mental health. This study was a hospital based case control study, conducted in the Dept. of Paediatrics RKDF Medical College and Research Centre, Bhopal, M.P. The children admitted in the department of Paediatrics, during the study period fulfilling the malnutrition criteria for admissions were included in the study. Result: In our study, 40% are male 60% females in cases whereas 35% males and 65% females in controls. Majority of children cases were in Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) as compared to Moderate Acute Malnutrition (MAM) while in the control group, an equal number of children had SAM & MAM. Maximum children were partially immunized i.e. 60% and in the control group, maximum children were Immunized i.e. 80%.Conclusion: Despite the introduction of various national programs at different levels for improvement of maternal and child health, we still have a significant number of children who are undernourished and unimmunized. Children are the future of our nation and their health is of paramount importance. It can only be achieved with strong political will, active participation of the community and by increased commitment of health care professionals. We need to start from birth, institutional delivery, exclusive breast feeding, immunization, and timely introduction of complementary feeds, marriages at appropriate age, proper antenatal visits and birth spacing. In children whose mothers were empowered reflecting the importance of educating and empowering a female child. Improvement in our education system among vulnerable communities and economic development might decrease the prevalence of SAM in India.