Objective: Estimation of nutritional status, morbidity, mortality, their causes, in under five children
Method: Earlier registered 277 infants were followed up to five years and clinically examined for morbidity, mortality,
and nutritional status at interval of six months
Results: Underweight showed an inclining trend from 12 months (24.2%) up to 48 months (42.5%). Wasting showed an
inclining trend from 18 months (6.9%) up to 60 months (18.5%). Main morbidities were fever, acute respiratory infection
(ARI), Gastroentrological (GIT), Eye, Ear Disease and skin infection. Fever showed declining trend from 12 months
(28.3%) up to 60 months (12.5%) both in case of boys and girls. GIT also showed declining trend from 12 months
(25.3%) up to 60 months (4.0%). ARI showed declining trend from 12 months (31.0%) up to 60 months (14.7%). Discoloration
of hair, sign of protein calorie malnutrition was observed high i.e. 55.3 percent (12 month) to 71.2 percent
(60 months) which needs attention. Angular stomatitis, Chelosis, Glossitis and Bitot spot were other nutritional
deficiencies observed.
Conclusion : Results revealed growth retardation in desert area. The results will help in developing a package for preschool
children, which will be useful to State Health Department Functionaries in the management of malnutrition.