Assessment of Nutritional Status in School and Non-School Going Children of Age 5-12 Years

Background: Nutritional problems are prevalent among children, particularly in countries like Pakistan. A balanced diet and physical activity are essential for the normal growth of children between the ages of 5 to 12 years. Objective: To assess the nutritional status of children aged 5 to 12 years in Lahore. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 310 children, including both school-going and non-school-going individuals, from four schools—two from Bhamman and two from Taqipur, Lahore. Participants were selected using a convenient sampling technique. Anthropometric measurements (height and weight) were taken using standardized instruments. Dietary intake data were collected using a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). The Body Mass Index (BMI) for age, height for age, and weight for age z-scores were calculated using WHO growth standards. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to assess associations between nutritional status and various factors. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethical Review Committee of the University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, The University of Lahore. Informed consent was obtained from the parents or guardians of all participating children. Results: Out of 310 subjects, 42.9% were stunted, and 18.4% experienced wasting. Underweight prevalence was 40%, while 16.5% were overweight, and 9.7% were obese. The gender distribution included 101 females (32.6%) and 209 males (67.4%). The mean age was 8 ± 2.38 years, with the minimum and maximum ages being 5 and 12 years, respectively. Conclusion: The study indicates a significant prevalence of both undernutrition and overnutrition among children aged 5 to 12 years in Lahore. There is a critical need for targeted interventions to address these nutritional issues through education, policy development, and community-based initiatives. Keywords: Malnutrition, Stunting, Wasting, Nutritional Status, Underweight, Overweight, Obesity, BMI, Lahore, Child Nutrition, Public Health, Dietary Intake, Anthropometric Measurements