DefinePK

Abstract

The nutritional status of orphaned children residing in Peshawar orphanages is scantily documented. Objectives: To assess the eating habits, awareness of nutrition, and dietary status of children living in orphanages in the Peshawar area of Pakistan. Methods: The study involved 120 children, ages 5 to 15, and was conducted at three separate orphanages in Peshawar city. Food frequency questionnaires were used to collect data on the orphan children's socioeconomic situation, anthropometric measures (weight and height), eating patterns, physical activity, and food preferences. Additionally, data on biochemical tests used to measure hemoglobin levels (Hb) were gathered. To determine the orphans' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours about dietary guidelines, another Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) questionnaire was used. SPSS-26 was used to analyze the data that were collected. Results: According to the findings, 4%, 9%, and 3% of the children in the study were underweight, overweight, and obese, respectively. Additionally, 12% of the orphans were anemic, and 13% were stunted. Carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables, meat, legumes, dairy products, nuts, and beverages were consumed by the majority of the orphans. However, they also have a great preference for chips, pickles, and fast food. Conclusions: It was concluded that the current findings indicated poor diet habits and the occurrence of malnutrition among various children's orphanages of Peshawar. The present study reveals the link between malnutrition in orphans and the absence of particular care, which indicates the importance of intervention strategies to diminish the risk of malnutrition for this vulnerable group in the district of Peshawar.