Analysis of malnutrition status among primary and middle school students in poor rural areas of Chongqing from 2013 to 2019 / 公共卫生与预防医学

ABSTRACT

Objective To evaluate the malnutrition status and analyze the changing trends of nutritional status among primary and middle school students in poor rural areas of Chongqing from 2013 to 2019, and to provide scientific bases for formulating measures to improve students' nutrition status. Methods In 12 poor rural areas in Chongqing, a random sampling was adopted. At least 10% of elementary and middle schools were randomly selected in each area each year. At least 40 students were sampled in each grade to measure their height and weight. The nutritional status of the students was evaluated and the changing trend of nutritional status in the five years from 2013 to 2019 was analyzed. Results From 2013 to 2019, the prevalence rate of malnutrition showed a downward trend. The prevalence rate of malnutrition of boys was higher than that of girls. The prevalence rate of growth retardation decreased more significantly than that of emaciation. Conclusion The status of malnutrition among students in poor areas of Chongqing had been improved, but had not been eliminated yet. Further attention should be paid to the changes of students' nutritional status and timely measures should be taken to improve the students' nutritional and health status.