Underweight schoolchildren in a rural school near the Thai-Cambodian border

Abstract

We report on the high prevalence of underweight children in a rural primary school near the Thai-Cambodian border. Ninety-five children were studied: anthropometric data were recorded and studied for their correlation with semester examination scores; 63.2% of the children (60 cases) were underweight; in addition, BMI appeared to be significantly correlated to the semester examination scores. Our findings also revealed problems of nutrition and sanitation among the schoolchildren. In conclusion, schoolchildren in rural areas should be considered a priority in the national health and nutrition promotion programs.