ASSESSMENT OF NUTRITIONAL CONDITION OF INTELLECTUALLY DISABLED CHILDREN AND ITS CORRELATES

Medical Science

The primary objective of the study was to evaluate the nutritional condition based on BMI for children with special needs (aged 6 to 15 years) living in the urban area of Surat. 400 children who were screened belong to special schools of Surat. Data on anthropometric measurements including height and weight were recorded using standard equipment and techniques. Body mass index was calculated. Information on socio- economic condition was gathered from the school records. Dietary preferences and consumption of various foods was collected through interview method. Results of the study show that 64% of the children were obese and 18% were underweight. The dietary preference reflected that children preferred foods which were calorie dense. They used food as a medium to comfort themselves. The dietary intake had direct co relation with the nutritional condition.

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