Article Abstract
International Journal of Trends in Emerging Research and Development, 2024;2(3):285-288
The role of health education in shaping nutritional status of slum-dwelling women and children in Nagpur
Author : Khan Arshad Tanvir and Dr. Manoj Mathew P
Abstract
This study explores the critical influence of health education initiatives on improving the nutritional status of women and children residing in the slum areas of Nagpur, India. Slum populations often suffer disproportionately from malnutrition, owing to limited access to health services, low literacy levels, and socio-economic constraints. By implementing targeted health education programs-focusing on nutrition, hygiene, maternal care, and child feeding practices-this research highlights notable improvements in dietary habits and health outcomes among participants.
Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through surveys, focus group discussions, and interviews with healthcare workers and beneficiaries across five urban slum clusters. Quantitative analysis revealed a statistically significant reduction in instances of anemia and undernutrition among children, alongside increased awareness of balanced diets and micronutrient-rich food consumption among women. Qualitative findings underscored the importance of culturally relevant messaging, community involvement, and consistent follow-up by trained health educators.
The study underscores that health education not only alters knowledge and attitudes but also fosters behavioral change that can sustainably enhance nutritional health. It calls for scalable interventions integrated within public health policy to bridge nutrition gaps in underserved populations.
Keywords
Health education, nutritional status, slum populations, women and children, urban poverty, Nagpur, public health interventions, anemia, malnutrition, behavior change communication