To Assess the Nutritional Status and Morbidity Patterns Among Non-Pregnant Non-Lactating Rural Women of Reproductive Age Group ( 1840 Years )

The study was undertaken to assess the nutritional status, dietary intake and morbidity patterns among 100 non-pregnant non-lactating rural women of reproductive age group (18-40 years) in the village Bashahpur, Gurgaon. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using both qualitative and quantitative data-collection methods. The study involved interviews using a questionnaire, measurement of food/nutrient intake, anthropometry, observations of clinical signs of morbidities and assessment of their general knowledge and awareness about health, nutrition and sanitation. The mean BMI of the women was found to be 21.12 (±3.7) kg/m2 with 25% of them being underweight and 16% being overweight or obese. The overall quality of food and nutrient intake was poor as the intake of all the food groups (except fats, sugars and milk and milk products) was found to be much lower than their RDAs. The mean energy and protein intake was found to be 983.60 (±309.6) kcal and 27.33 (±8.2) g, respectively which met only 50% of the nutrient requirements. Similarly, the intake of micronutrients was also found to be inadequate particularly of iron and folic acid which met only 37.8% and 11% of the RDAs, respectively. Dietary deficiencies were also present in NPNL women of Badshahpur reflecting their effects in the clinical signs like pale conjunctiva, menstrual problems and pregnancy complications, etc. The mean general knowledge score was found to be 12 (±3.2) out of 24 which reflected that subjects possessed average knowledge about health, nutrition and hygiene. Efforts are needed to improve diet quality and education for rural women so that they rise in economic status and are better nourished.