Clinical prevalence of micronutrient deficiency in school-age children: An observational study

Objectives: Micronutrient deficiencies represent a significant public health concern, particularly among children in the school-going age group. Children between the ages of 5 and 14 years are especially vulnerable due to increased nutritional demands during periods of rapid growth. This study aims to assess the clinical prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies in school-aged children based on their presenting signs and symptoms and to evaluate any correlation between these deficiencies and their physical growth parameters. (1) To assess the clinical prevalence of micronutrient (vitamins and minerals) deficiencies in school-age children attending the outpatient department of a single tertiary care centre. (2) To evaluate the correlation between clinically suspected micronutrient deficiencies and growth parameters in these children. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at a single tertiary care centre over 12 months. The study was reviewed and approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee on 22 August 2024 with registered number TMCHRC/Surg/2024/IEC Protocol-02/11. A total of 125 school-age children, between 5 and 14 years, were selected through simple random sampling from those presenting to the outpatient department. After obtaining informed consent from their guardians, data were collected using a pre-validated case record pro forma. The data were analysed descriptively, with calculations of mean, median and percentile distributions. Correlations between suspected micronutrient deficiencies and growth measurements were evaluated using appropriate statistical methods. Results: The findings indicate a significant burden of undernutrition, with more than half of the children (51.2%) being underweight. The prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies was high, with iron deficiency (35.2%), zinc deficiency (31.2%), Vitamin A deficiency (21.6%) and Vitamin B12 deficiency (23.2%) being the most commonly observed. Among underweight children (51.2%), deficiencies were prevalent. Dental caries were more common in normal-weight children, possibly reflecting different dietary patterns or access to preventive dental care. Conclusion: This study highlights a high prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies in school-aged children. The significant proportion of underweight children reinforces the need for nutritional interventions, including school-based supplementation programmes, dietary education and regular health screenings.