Health Status of Children Residing at Orphanages in Rural Karnataka

Abstract

Introduction: It is estimated that there are around 140 million children are orphans worldwide. These children suffer from physical neglect, poor hygiene, and a lack of nutrition, which result in various health problems among children. They are more prone to malnutrition, respiratory tract infection, skin diseases, and dental caries. Aim: This study aims to assess the health status among children living in an orphanage. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Kanyana residential ashrams or orphanages. The data were collected using pretested semi-structured questionnaire which includes sociodemographic profile, personal hygiene, anthropometric measurement, clinical examination, and investigation. Body mass index and anemia were classified as per the WHO criteria. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical software. Results: The mean age of the group of 69 children was 11.86 ± 2.29 years. Skin disease or infection and dental carries were most prevalent among children. The prevalence of moderately underweight, severely underweight, and anemia were 18.8%, 10.1%, and 21.7%, respectively. Conclusion: The present study showed that the maximum children had skin disease and dental carries because of poor personal hygiene. Even the prevalence of anemia among children was slightly lower than the national data.

Does Self-esteem and Social Identity Play a Role in Keeping the Family Occupation Alive?

“…It is found that the joint family system still prevails in the weavers' community. The weaving occupation is one such profession which involves all the family members, be it children or the elderly, all of whom contribute their valuable services in the pre-loom, loom and post-loom processes (Singh & Naik, 2010). Considered to be CBE, these entrepreneurs not only make an important contribution to the local economy but also strengthen social ties within the community (Hertel et al, 2019).…”

“…The weaving occupation is one such profession which involves all family members from children to the elderly, all of whom contribute their valuable services in pre-loom, loom and post-loom processes (Singh & Naik, 2010) (Annexure, Figure A1). The weavers of Jharkhand form a part of a community of micro-entrepreneurs whose skill in their craft has seen their business grow over the years not just nationally but also internationally.…”