Archives of Current Research International

Adolescence is a critical period of rapid growth and development, and adequate nutrition during this stage is essential for maintaining optimal health. However, malnutrition among adolescents continues to be a major public health concern in rural areas of India, affecting their physical growth, development, and future health outcomes. The present study aimed to assess the nutritional status of adolescents in rural areas of Sarojini Nagar, Lucknow, using anthropometric measurements such as height, weight, and Body Mass Index (BMI), and to determine the prevalence of malnutrition among boys and girls. A cross-sectional, non-interventional study was conducted from February to April 2024 in five villages (Dadoopur, Chakoli, Aurawan, Ramachaura, and Miranpur Pinvat) adopted by Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow. A total of 225 adolescents aged 10-17 years were selected using a pre-designed questionnaire. The results showed that 52.89% were males and 47.11% were females, with most participants belonging to early adolescence (12-14 years). Gender-wise comparison showed that males had a significantly higher mean height than females (145.66 ± 11.89 vs. 141.73 ± 10.18 cm; p = 0.003). Similarly, males had a higher mean weight than females (36.01 ± 9.24 vs. 34.59 ± 8.78 kg); however, the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The mean BMI (World Health Organization [WHO], 2007) of the study population was 17.84 ± 2.39 kg/m². A high burden of wasting (BMI) was observed, with 72.2% of participants classified as wasted, while 26.6% had normal BMI and 0.8% were overweight. Weight-for-age assessment showed that 84.89% of participants were underweight, while 15.11% had normal weight. Stunting was prevalent among 67.54% of adolescents, including mild (31.99%), moderate (27.55%), and severe (8.00%) stunting. The mean height-for-age Z-score (WHO, 2007) was significantly lower among females than males (-1.89 ± 1.01 vs. -1.52 ± 0.88; p = 0.004). The findings indicate a high prevalence of malnutrition and stunting among rural adolescents in Sarojini Nagar, Lucknow. Regular anthropometric assessments and targeted nutritional interventions are essential to improve adolescent growth and nutritional status.