AbstractMaternal nutrition has a significant impact on pregnancy outcomes and the long-term health of both the mother and the child. Adequate dietary intake during pregnancy is essential for foetal growth. Maternal nutrition during pregnancy affects maternal as well as neonatal mortality and morbidity. In India, however, maternal malnutrition remains a serious public health problem, particularly among socioeconomically vulnerable populations and indigenous communities. Sundargarh district in Odisha is home to several tribal communities, including the Oraon tribe which is one of the largest and culturally significant groups in the region. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 105 pregnant women of Oraon tribe in Sundargarh district to understand their socio-demographic profile and assess their nutritional status. Data were collected through structured interviews and anthropometric measurements, including height, weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) along with prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women. The findings revealed a low socio-demographic profile of majority of the pregnant mothers, characterized by early pregnancy, limited education and low income. Nutritional assessment indicated the prevalence of low BMI and anaemia, highlighting significant dietary deficiencies. This study highlights the need of targeted nutritional interventions, community-based health education, and enhanced access to prenatal care in tribal communities. Improving mother and child health outcomes requires strengthening maternal nutrition programs that are adapted to the Oraon tribe's specific cultural and socioeconomic contexts.
Gardia et al. (Wed,) studied this question.