Nutritional Status among Reproductive-aged Women in Dang District: A Cross-sectional Descriptive Study

Abstract

Introduction: Women's nutrition during their reproductive years is a major concern around the world, particularly in developing countries. Women's nutritional status is crucial to their health and that of their children, as any abnormalities can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Moreover, it has far-reaching implications for human capital, economic productivity, and overall national development. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the nutritional status among reproductive-aged women in Dang, Nepal.

Methods: We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study in Ghorahi, the Sub-Metropolitan City of Dang after obtaining ethical approval from the Nepal Health Research Council. Total 339 women of reproductive age (15-49 years) were chosen for the study through a systematic random sampling technique. Nutritional status was determined based on Body Mass Index. Face-to-face interview technique was used for data collection after informed consent. SPSS 16 was used to analyze the data which were collected using semi-structured questionnaires.

Results: Out of total respondents, 105 (31%) (26.1-26.2 at 95% CI) , 85 (25.1%) (20.5-30 at 95% CI), and 26 (7.6%) (5.1-11 at 95% CI) were undernourished, overweight, and obese respectively.

Conclusions: Nutritional deficiency is still a problem among reproductive-aged women in Nepal. Suitable measures from both governmental and non-governmental sides to improve the nutritional status of reproductive- aged women are imperative.