Biology of the Tribal Groups of Rajasthan, India: 3. Assessment of Nutritional Status Using Heights and Weights

Cross-sectional investigation was carried out on 2221 samples consisting of 1133 males and 1088 females belonging to adolescent (8+ to 18+) age groups among the tribal groups, namely Minas, Bhils, Sahariyas, Garasias, Damors and Kathodis of Rajasthan. For the purpose of analysis, the subjects were classified into yearly intervals. Heights and weights were collected following the internationally accepted standards and based on the interrelationships of height, weight and age: height for age and weight for age, has been calculated and accordingly their nutritional status has been determined. While comparing the present study tribal groups for the mean values of heights and weights it was found that they were lower than the national and international standards. The present study shows a high prevalence of stunting (low height for age) and underweight (low weight for age) among both males and females. Females show a higher percentage prevalence of chronic malnutrition (< 90), with respect to height and also underweight than the males. Most samples fall much below the normal (75+) standards of weight for age. Thus, malnutrition is largely prevalent among the tribal groups of Rajasthan and the condition is further aggravated as it appears in combination with PEM.