Nutritional status of kashmiri children (2-10 years) suffering from parasitic infestation: A hospital based study.

ABSTRACT

Background:Worms are among the major causes of human misery and death in the world today. An important source of nutritional and energetic stress in many populations is infectious diseases, such as diarrheal disease, respiratory infections, and parasitic infections. The helminthes disease in Kashmir valley particularly the Ascariasis is mainly present in children from low socio-economic status. Kashmiri Children are most vulnerable to developing malnutrition and are likely to suffer from the effects of helminthiasis. Objective: The aim of the present study is to determine the relationship between Helminthic infection and nutritional status of the Kashmiri children. Methodology: An analysis of 100 patients (both boys and girls) suffering from parasitic infestation in the age group of 2-10 years was done in the present study. On the basis of clinical presentations, physical findings the nutritional status of Kashmiri children suffering from parasitic infestation was determined. Results:The majority of the patients belong to the age group of 2-4 years, correlation between higher prevalence of parasitism and poor environment situation was observed and malnutrition is observed a major cause of the disease. Mothers of patients had low literacy rate as comparison to father. Majority of the patients had the MAC, chest circumference as well as head circumference much less than the normal. Interpretation & conclusion:Kashmirichildren suffering from parasitic infestation have a very poor nutritional status, Anorexia, Diarrhoea, Vomiting, Fever, Respiratory infection;Anaemia and Dry cough were major complaints in all patients. Lack of personal hygiene, exclusive use of unboiled water, pica and field defecation increased risk of worm infestation. Helminthiasis is a common health problem among preschool children. Its association with malnutrition dictates that urgent steps need to be taken to prevent children from being infested if under –five mortality is to be reduced. This may be achieved through improvement in sanitary conditions of the environment, deworming and proper nutrition of the child.