By: SUDIPTA DAS
Childhood is a crucial period for physical growth and development and reflects the overall health and nutritional status of a population. This study aimed to assess the physical growth and nutritional status of school-going children aged 6–10 years in the Purba Medinipur district of West Bengal, India. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 275 children, including 120 boys and 155 girls from 41selected primary schools. Anthropometric measurements, such as height, weight, and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), were recorded following standard procedures, and Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated to evaluate nutritional status. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 16.0). Independent sample t-tests were used to examine age-specific sex differences, and correlation analysis was applied to assess relationships among height, weight, and BMI. The results showed that only the 6+ age group had a significant sex difference in height (p < 0.05), while weight differences were not significant. Overall, the growth patterns of boys and girls were largely comparable.
