Comparative evaluation of nutritional status in young women from different income groups in Gadchiroli district

Good nutrition is the key to good physical and mental health. Income, prices, individual preferences, social and economic factors interact to shape dietary consumption patterns and affect clinical status of women. An Observational Cross sectional study was conducted with a total of 120 females aged 18-30 years (40 women from each income group) in Gadchiroli, Maharashtra. Anthropometry was taken in person with the help of medical professionals. Higher population (64%) in lower class were underweight followed by 57% in middle class and 44% in higher class group. Despite the higher percentage of underweight, there was higher prevalence of abdominal obesity. There was significant difference found in the dietary intakes of lower class, middle class and upper class groups. Higher intake of carbohydrates, protein and fats was seen in middle and upper class. Lower class income group consumed less than the required EAR. This is because the lower income group could not afford to eat more than 2 meals a day.