Morbidity Profile of Children at a Construction Site: Reaching the last Mile

Abstract

 Background- A research study was planned to assess social determinants of health affecting well-being of children residing in labour camps. The objectives of the study were-1.Understanding Morbidity Profile of children residing in labour camps of construction site.2.Assessment of social determinants based on certain components of SAFE MODEL. Methodology- A Retrospective descriptive study was carried out on survey of 118 families and pediatric mega camp data of 311 children from December 2023- March 2024 living at a construction site. Study presents morbidity profile of children in form of 4 D’s (Defects, Diseases, Developmental delays, Deficiencies) and qualitatively analyses on some social determinants assessed on basis of SAFE model^. Descriptive statistics and WHO reference indicators for anthropometry were used. Observations of survey are presented as qualitative data in form of comments. Results/Conclusion-26.37% children were suffering from childhood diseases and 28.67% children were having micro nutrient deficiencies. 0.64 % had birth defects, 0.32% had developmental delays. The percentage of underweight children in 0-6 years age group was 30%, in age group of 7-10years were 48% were stunted.22.50% children had acute respiratory infections. 55% of children had some kind of disease or deficiency. Strategies adopted to survive in new and hostile environment lead to neglect of many important aspects like security, well-being and health of children. We recommend improvement in living conditions of families at labour camp. Effective child protection, education policies, disease protection and health promotion, can go a long way in improving the overall well-being of the families in the lower socio-economic strata.