Association Of Nutritional Status And Dental Caries Among Anganwadi Children Of Jaipur City A ‘Cross Sectional Study’

Abstract

Introduction: Burden of malnutrition in children exists all over the world, either in the form of undernutrition or obesity. Poverty along with other socio-demographic factors act as important determinants of malnutrition which not only affect health but also oral health (enamel hypoplasia, dental caries, scurvy etc.)

Aim:  To assess the association of nutritional status and dental caries among Anganwadi children of Jaipur City.

Methodology: A cross‑sectional epidemiological study was conducted on a representative sample of 100 children, aged 36–72 months, at Anganwadi centres of Jaipur City. Nutritional status was evaluated by measuring body mass index (BMI) and mid‑upper arm circumference (MUAC). Dental caries examination was carried out according to the WHO criteria. Statistical test used were Chi Square test and Student T test.

Results: Nutritional status according to BMI showed 60% of children to be underweight and according to MUAC 41% of children was undernourished. A highest (38.3%) number of underweight children were seen in 36-45 months age group, with a higher number of males being affected. Risk of dental caries was higher in 54-63 months age group with female being affected more than males. Association of BMI was significant and that of MUAC was non-significant with dental caries.

Conclusion: 60% of children were underweight And it decreased with the age with increase in dental caries respectively.