Title : Factors associated with nutritional status in the rural garo indigenous of Bangladesh
Abstract:
Background: Adequate nutrition is a cornerstone of good health, higher quality of life, and increased national productivity. Ethnic groups often follow distinct lifestyles and cultural practices, which can significantly impact their nutritional needs and health outcomes. As a result, understanding the nutritional status of these populations is crucial.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional status of the Garo ethnic community residing in Modhupur Upazila, located in the Tangail District of Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study design was employed, and simple random sampling was used to select 289 adults aged between 18 and 70 years. Data collection was done through face-to-face interviews, and verbal consent was obtained from a community leader prior to the interviews. Nutritional status was assessed using the Body Mass Index (BMI) cutoff value for the Asian population.
Results: Of the total 289 subjects (36% male, 64% female), 14.9% of participants were underweight, 35.3% had a normal weight, 33.2% were overweight, and 16.6% were classified as obese. Statistical analysis showed significant associations between nutritional status and demographic factors, including age and occupation.
Conclusions: The nutritional status of the Garo community was depicted in this study in a negative light These results emphasize the need for a better understanding of the nutritional challenges faced by the Garo community and suggest that targeted nutrition education and intervention programs could help improve their nutritional status. By addressing these challenges, it is possible to improve health outcomes, promote a better quality of life, and contribute to the overall well-being of the Garo people.
Keywords: Garo Ethnic Community, Nutritional Status, BMI, Body Mass Index.
