Factors Associated with the Nutritional Status of Adolescent School Children in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Adolescence is a critical period of growth, making nutrition a key determinant of long-term health. In Nepal, where adolescents comprise nearly 24% of the population, their nutritional status is a significant public health concern, yet they are often overlooked in national programs. This study aimed to identify the factors associated with the nutritional status of adolescent school children in the Kathmandu Valley.
Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 391 adolescent students (10-19 years) selected via simple random sampling from schools in the Kathmandu Valley. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, and anthropometric measurements were taken to determine nutritional status (underweight or normal weight). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0, with statistical significance set at a p-value < 0.05.
Results: The study included 64.5% male and 35.5% female students. The majority (95.4%) were Hindu. A statistically significant association was found between the adolescents' weight status and their age, as well as their mother's age. Underweight was significantly more prevalent in older adolescents (15-20 years) at 20.0% compared to younger adolescents (10-14 years) at 4.1% (p=0.001). Adolescents whose mothers were in the 30-40 year age group had a higher rate of underweight (15.1%) compared to those with mothers aged 41-50 years (5.6%) (p=0.007). No significant association was observed between nutritional status and family size, ethnicity, religion, or parental education and occupation.
Conclusion: Age of the adolescent and maternal age are significant factors associated with nutritional status among school children in the Kathmandu Valley. The higher prevalence of underweight in older adolescents highlights a critical window for intervention. Nutritional programs in Nepal should be expanded to specifically target this demographic to prevent long-term health consequences and improve academic performance.