NUTRITIONAL AND HEALTH STATUS OF PRIMARY SCHOOLCHILDREN IN RURAL UGANDA

Of the world's undernourished children, 80% live in 20 countries, among which is Uganda. It is estimated that malnutrition directly and indirectly contributes up to 60% of child mortality, making malnutrition one of the most significant contributors to childhood mortality in the country. Poor nutrition and health can affect children's education. The nutritional status of school children (9-15 years) was assessed in Kumi district, Eastern Uganda in 2006-2007. The latest Uganda Demographic and Health report indicates that nearly 38% of Ugandan children below 5 years are stunted, 6% are wasted and 16% are underweight, which puts Uganda among the few countries with the highest malnutrition rates. Micronutrient deficiencies including iron, iodine, vitamin A and recently zinc. The research methods and statistical analysis for this study are highlighted.