Nutritional status of adolescent girls in a rural area of North 24 Parganas district, West Bengal.

A community based, cross-sectional study was conducted during June to December 1999 in Amdanga block of North 24 Parganas district, West Bengal. Among a sample of 143 adolescent girls (10-19 years), selected through multistage sampling procedure. Data was collected by interviewing the adolescent girls and their parent, whenever necessary using pre-designed, pre-tested, semi-structured schedule. Anthropometric measurements were recorded using standardized methodology as recommended by WHO and standard clinical examination procedures were followed. Standard operational definitions were used. Appropriate statistical tests like Chi-square test were applied as and when required. Overall prevalence of 'thinness' and 'stunting' were found to be 14.7% and 37.8% respectively. There was no significant association (p > 0.05) of thinness or stunting with per capita monthly family income and literacy status of parents. Common nutritional deficiency disorders were anaemia (44.8%), dental caries (25.9%), angular stomatitis (15.4%) etc.