Y. Padma Sri1, D. V. B. Anusha2
BACKGROUND: As a part of nationwide program, MDM scheme is being implemented in Kurnool district since January 2003. Any government program is always under the scrutiny of the media for its impact. Following a recent adverse report in the press on the mode of cooking and its effect on health of the children, this study was undertaken to understand the health effects, (both beneficial and adverse) of MDM on school children.
OBJECTIVES: 1) To assess the potential risk for adverse health effects/ events at schools where MDM is being served. 2) To study the health effects of MDM on primary school children.
METHODOLOGY: A cross sectional study was done in 28(50%) randomly selected Government and allied primary schools in Kurnool municipal corporation area. Data on the conduct of the MDM was collected from the head master/ teacher in charge, with a pretested semi structured questionnaire. 10% of all the students in each class (classes I -V), selected by systematic random sampling method were interviewed with a semi structured questionnaire which also included clinical examination and measurement of height and weight.
RESULTS: Of the 28 schools, LPG was being used in 21(75%) schools, firewood in 7 (25 %) schools. Iodized salt was being used in only 19 schools (67.8%). No adverse events were ever reported from any of the schools. Of the 369 students interviewed 321(87%) were enrolled and 48(13%) not enrolled in MDM. 49.9% were with normal BMI, 10.3% were thin and 19.1% were severely thin when compared with WHO (2007) z scores. The respiratory morbidity was significantly high (p=0.0002) among students from schools where firewood was being used for cooking. Conclusions: Guidelines such as use of LPG gas for cooking, use of iodized salt etc. unless strictly adhered to, would discredit the effectiveness of the program.
