Community Nutrition Approaches for Addressing the Double Burden of Malnutrition among Children in India: Evidence from a Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: India continues to face the double burden of malnutrition (DBM), characterized by the
coexistence of undernutrition and overweight/obesity among children. Community nutrition
interventions have emerged as effective strategies to address both forms of malnutrition through
integrated health promotion, dietary diversification, and nutrition education.
Objective: To assess the effectiveness of community-based nutrition approaches in addressing the
double burden of malnutrition among children residing in selected rural and urban communities of
North and South 24 Parganas, West Bengal, India.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 children aged 5–12 years
from selected rural and urban communities. Data on anthropometric measurements, dietary intake,
socioeconomic characteristics, and participation in community nutrition programs were collected using
structured questionnaires and standard WHO anthropometric procedures. Descriptive statistics, chi-
square tests, and logistic regression analyses were performed. Means were presented with standard
errors (SE). Statistical significance was considered at p < 0.05.
Results: The prevalence of underweight, stunting, wasting, overweight, and obesity was 24.3%,
27.7%, 13.7%, 11.0%, and 3.3%, respectively. Children participating in community nutrition
interventions showed significantly better dietary diversity scores (6.2 ± 0.18) compared with non-
participants (4.9 ± 0.20). Participation was associated with lower odds of undernutrition (AOR = 0.61;
95% CI: 0.42–0.89) and overweight (AOR = 0.69; 95% CI: 0.45–0.96).
Conclusion: Community nutrition approaches significantly improve dietary diversity and nutritional
status among children. Strengthening integrated community-based nutrition programs can reduce both
undernutrition and overnutrition, contributing to improved child health in India.