RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUS AND ANTHROPOMETRIC INDICES IN SCHOOL-GOING ADOLESCENT BOYS AND GIRLS (12-18 YEARS) FROM RIMI TOWN
Abstract
Socioeconomic status (SES) is a critical determinant of health outcomes, particularly among adolescents. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between SES and anthropometric outcomes among school-going adolescent boys and girls in Rimi Town. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 500 adolescent boys and girls (ages 12-18) from public and private schools in Rimi Town. SES was assessed using a composite index of parental education, occupation, and household income. Anthropometric outcomes, including height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference, were measured using standardized protocols. The results showed significant differences in anthropometric outcomes by SES. Adolescents from lower SES backgrounds had higher rates of underweight (87.5%) and normal weight (12.5%), while those from higher SES backgrounds had higher rates of overweight (25.0%) and obesity (25.0%). Girls from lower SES backgrounds had higher rates of stunting and underweight compared to boys. This study highlights the significant relationship between SES and anthropometric outcomes among school-going adolescent boys and girls in Rimi Town. The findings suggest that targeted interventions are needed to address malnutrition and promote healthy lifestyles among adolescents from disadvantaged backgrounds.
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