2024, Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part B

Methodology: The study aimed to assess the epidemiological correlates and growth of an infant cohort in an urban slum area of Western Maharashtra, using a prospective cohort design. Conducted at the Urban Health Training Center (UHTC) of Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, Karad, it provided insights into infant growth in a socio-environmental context. The sample included 60 infants selected through non-probability convenience sampling, with criteria for inclusion being infants born to mothers who are permanent residents of the area and available for one-year follow-up. Exclusion criteria included infants born to mothers visiting parental homes or with congenital malformations or severe diseases. The study tool comprised three sections: demographic profile, anthropometric measurements, and follow-up history. Reliability testing for inter-rater, intra-rater, and test-retest consistency showed good reliability. A pilot study on 10 samples was conducted to refine the methods, with written informed consent obtained from participants and administrative approval from the university and hospital.

Result: The study assessed weight and length growth patterns of male and female infants in an urban slum area of Maharashtra, comparing them to WHO standards. Male infants exhibited consistently lower weights across all percentiles, with the largest deviation observed at the 97th percentile, where the mean weight was 1.2 kg lower than WHO norms. Despite gradual convergence toward WHO standards from the 8th month onward, growth deficits persisted, especially in the 3rd and 97th percentiles. Female infants showed similar trends, with significant weight deficits at the 3rd and 50th percentiles, but some catch-up growth was observed in the 97th percentile from the 8th month. Length measurements for both genders were consistently shorter than WHO standards, particularly in the lower percentiles. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in weight and length between the study cohort and WHO standards for male infants, while female infants exhibited fewer significant differences.

Conclusion: The findings underscore the need for targeted nutritional interventions.