Malnutrition and Academic Performance in Udagri Elementary School (2022-2023) PDF

General Santos Doctors’ Medical School Foundation, Inc. Bulaong Subd., Brgy. West, General Santos City, Philippines Telephone Nos. (083) 825-8372/552-9793; Email [email protected] | [email protected] MALNUTRITION AND ACADEMIC PERFOR...

General Santos Doctors’ Medical School Foundation, Inc. Bulaong Subd., Brgy. West, General Santos City, Philippines Telephone Nos. (083) 825-8372/552-9793; Email [email protected] | [email protected] MALNUTRITION AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AMONG SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN IN UDAGRI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL S.Y 2022 -2023 BSN 4A- GROUP7  General Santos Doctors’ Medical School Foundation, Inc. Bulaong Subd., Brgy. West, General Santos City, Philippines Telephone Nos. (083) 825-8372/552-9793; Email [email protected] | [email protected] MALNUTRITION AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AMONG SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN IN UDAGRI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL S.Y 2022 -2023 BSN 4A- GROUP7  PRESENTER: Annie, Nor Shaiva A. Bohot, Griezelle R. Carlito, Nicole M. Cobrado, Sheirahmae B. Ganayo, Cherry Mae F. Gerasta, Symone Francoise OBJECTIVES: INTRODUCTION RESULTS SOP 2 RESULTS SOP 3 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM CONCLUSION CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK RECOMMENDATION METHODOLOGY RESULTS SOP 1 INTRODUCTION Adequate nutrition is intricately linked to improved immune function, a reduced incidence of non-communicable diseases, and increased lifespan (WHO, 2018). Malnutrition, encompassing both under nutrition and over nutrition, is a significant global public health challenge. Malnutrition, a comprehensive concept ranging from severe hunger to obesity (Siddiqui, 2020), is particularly critical in developing countries. Its adverse effects on children's neurological and behavioral development hinder their academic potential, leading to cognitive and motor development delays (Zerga, A., et al, 2022). This issue is particularly salient during the pivotal years of school- aged children, where malnutrition becomes a barrier to achieving their maximum capabilities and, consequently, impacts educational advancement (Zerga, A., et al, 2022).  The correlation between malnutrition and academic performance is a compelling yet often underestimated concern. Studies show that malnutrition is the primary cause of poor academic performance, contributing to high absenteeism, early dropout, low school enrollment, and poor classroom performance (Zerga, A., et al, 2022). During the crucial years of school-aged children, proper nutrition is pivotal for cognitive and physical development. Nutrients from a balanced diet are indispensable for brain growth, cognitive function, and learning capacity (Galler, J. R., et al, 2021). Inadequate nutrient intake can result in cognitive impairments, including reduced attention span, memory deficits, and decreased problem-solving abilities, all of which hinder academic progress.  In the Philippines, malnutrition among schoolchildren significantly affects academic performance. Malnourished children are 20% less likely to be literate, and a 7% increase in errors in fundamental arithmetic is observed among them. Stunted nutritional status is associated with a 79% decrease in achieving good academic scores, and underweight students are 39% less likely to perform well academically (Danny, C., et al,2022).  This research in Purok Udagri, Barangay Conel, G.S.C., aims to explore the link between malnutrition and academic achievement in school-aged children especially after the effects of the COVID-19 lockdown which is a significant risk factor of malnutrition (Das et al., 2020; Hamadani et al., 2020). It seeks to uncover malnutrition's prevalence, its impact on academic performance, and identify contributing variables. The findings will inform the development of a targeted intervention program tailored to address malnutrition in this region, crucial for breaking the cycle of educational disadvantage associated with inadequate nutrition.  1. WHAT IS THE DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE IN TERMS OF; 1.1 Age 1.2 Gender 1.3 BMI 1.4 Family size STATEMENT 1.5 Family Income OF THE 2. WHAT IS THE LEVEL OF MALNUTRITION AMONG SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN IN PROBLEM UDAGRI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN TERMS OF: 2.1 Nutritional Assessment 2.2 Food Consumption 2.3 Supplements  3. WHAT IS THE LEVEL OF ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AMONG SCHOOL AGED CHILDREN IN UDAGRI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN TERMS OF: 3.1 Academic Participation 3.2 Attendance STATEMENT 3.3 GPA (Grade Point Average) OF THE PROBLEM 4. Is there a significant relationship between the level of malnutrition and academic performance among school-aged children in Udagri Elementary School?  NULL HYPOTHESIS (H0): THERE IS NO SIGNIFICANT RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE LEVEL OF MALNUTRITION AND ACADEMIC HYPOTHESIS PERFORMANCE AMONG CHILDREN IN UDAGRI SCHOOL-AGED ELEMENTARY SCHOOL.  MALNUTRITION ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE a.Nutritional a.Academic Assessment Participation b.GPA (Grade Point b.Food Consumptions Average) c.Supplements c.Attendance CONCEPTUAL Demographic Profile FRAME a. Age WORK b Gender c. BMI d. Family Size e. Family Income METHODOLOGY This study adopts a purposive sampling approach within a cross- sectional design to investigate the between malnutrition and academic performance among school-aged children in Udagri Elementary School, Barangay Conel, G.S.C. The study population is defined based on specific inclusion criteria, including age range, enrollment status in Udagri Elementary School, and willingness to participate. Purposive sampling criteria focus on characteristics such as nutritional status (BMI measurement within a specified range) and academic performance (assessed through attendance records and grades). Data will be collected once, providing a snapshot of the relationship between malnutrition and academic performance at a specific point in time. Statistical methods will be employed to analyze the collected data, offering insights into the correlation within the selected sample.  The study is to be conducted at Udagri Elementary School.It is located in Purok Udagri,Barangay Conel, General Santos City, South Cotabato, Philippines. It is a public elementary school that covers basic education for the first six years of compulsory education (grades 1-6).Udagri Elementary School was established in 2017. The selection of Udagri Elementary School as the locale for our research on the Malnutrition and school performance among school-aged children is deliberate and well-considered. In Barangay Conel, G.S.C., the population has a 7.8% increasing annual population change starting from the year of 2000 Brinkhoff, T. (2023). The research was implemented inside the premises of Udagri Elementary School, the room was cleaned, well-ventilated and had enough chairs for every student who participated within the community.  Parents and Guardians: a) they must have a school-aged student at Purok Udagri Elementary School, Barangay Conel General Santos City; b) they must have a child between the ages of six (6) to twelve (12).  The first section will focus on the demographic profile of the school aged children. The tool for profile made by the researchers; it will determine the age, gender, BMI, Family size, and Family income, Source of Income of the target group. The second section will determine the level of malnutrition of the school aged children, particularly the nutritional assessment, food consumption, and supplement. The third section will determine the level of academic performance of school aged children, in terms of academic participation, attendance, and GPA. Three experts validated the research questionnaires before they were approved or revised. The results of the collected data will be summed up and interpreted after the validators' approval. SCHOOL RECORDS This tool will be used to identify the academic performance of the school aged children. This is to gather the records specifically the BMI (height and Weight), Attendance, and GPA of the target school aged children  The researchers provided a method, which is the quantitative research methodology that will be utilized. The researchers used questionnaires and interviews to gather data on the Malnutrition and Academic Performance among School-aged Children in Udagri Elementary School, Barangay Conel G.S.C. The questionnaire was developed, validated, and administered to the respondents as the principal tool for data collection. All data gathered was processed, presented, analyzed, and interpreted using appropriate statistical tools.  The parents and teachers of the 81 school-age children in Purok Udagri, Barangay Conel, General Santos City, served as the research's respondents. The respondents were chosen using a purposive sample technique, in which a researcher relies on his or her own judgment when selecting members of the population to participate in the study Saunders, M., Lewis, P.,& Thornhill, A. (2012). The chosen parents and guardians were given questionnaires. The respondents were able to satisfy the requirements to be eligible to participate in this survey. In addition, the respondents agreed to take part in the study and engaged voluntarily. RESULTS What is the demographic profile in terms of Age: The prevalence of 11-year-old respondents (21%) underscores the critical role of this age group in terms of nutrition during rapid physical and cognitive development, Raval et al. (2020) emphasize the significance of nutrition for school-age children due to their rapid physical and cognitive growth. This developmental phase is crucial as children acquire new skills, develop socially, and master fundamental academic abilities, as elucidated by Brown & Harris (2020). What is the demographic profile in terms of Gender: Moreover, the gender distribution among respondents, with a majority being female (55.6%), Alemayehu et al. (2022) demonstrated that children's gender is a statistically significant covariate for the severity of child malnutrition, with female children exhibiting higher levels of malnutrition than males. Brown & Harris (2020) suggest that societal roles play a significant role in shaping nutritional outcomes, particularly for females. What is the demographic profile in terms of BMI: The level of malnutrition among school-aged children, evaluated through Body Mass Index (BMI), serves as a critical metric for assessing nutritional status. In our study, a significant proportion of school-aged children were found to be underweight, constituting 93.8% of the sample population. This aligns with findings from Mak et al. (2019), who emphasized that malnutrition, encompassing underweight and stunting, remains a substantial public health challenge in the Philippines. Distribution of Respondents in terms of Family Size The family demographics of the respondents also provide valuable insights. The prevalence of families with 4-6 members (60.5%) indicates a significant impact of family size on nutritional outcomes. Ahmad et al. (2020) emphasized that larger family sizes are associated with a higher risk of malnutrition due to resource scarcity and limited access to food, especially in contexts of poverty. Distribution of Respondents in terms of Monthly Income: This situation is further exacerbated by household income constraints, with a substantial proportion of respondents reporting a monthly income of 10,000 (24.7%), aligning with thedemographics The family findingsof of Eicher-Miller the respondents et also provide al. (2023) valuable insights. regarding The prevalence ofthe influence families of with 4-6 members (60.5%) indicates a significant impact of family size on nutritional household income on food outcomes. Ahmad et al. (2020) emphasized that larger family consumption choices sizes are associated with a higher riskand essential of malnutrition due to resource scarcity and limited access to food, especially in nutrient acquisition. Neima et al.'s contexts of poverty. (2018) study underscores the challenges faced by impoverished families, emphasizing that the poorest families are more likely to have children who are malnourished. WHAT IS THE LEVEL OF MALNUTRITION AMONG SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN IN UDAGRI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN TERMS OF: In the nutritional assessment concerning school-aged children, the statement "How often does my child eat 3 times a day" garnered a weighted mean of 4.56, interpreted The family demographics of the respondents also provide as a insights. valuable very The high extent. prevalence This of families finding with 4-6 members (60.5%) indicates a significant emphasizes impact of importance the critical family size on nutritional of outcomes. Ahmad et al. (2020) emphasized that larger family regular meal consumption for sizes are associated with a higher risk of malnutrition due to children's resource scarcitygrowth and limitedandaccessdevelopment. to food, especially in Children who contexts of poverty.consume at cannot least three meals a day may fail to meet the minimum requirements for proper growth, as highlighted by The World Organization for Humanitarian Movement (2023). WHAT IS THE LEVEL OF MALNUTRITION AMONG SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN IN UDAGRI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN TERMS OF: The statement "How often does my child consume carbohydrate-rich food (rice, rice products, corn, root crops, bread, noodles) every week?" received a verbal interpretation of very high The family with extent demographics of the respondents a weighted mean also of provide 4.46. valuable insights. The prevalence of families with 4-6 members Carbohydrates are the primary source (60.5%) indicates a significant impact of family size on of energy nutritional for Ahmad outcomes. the body and et al. (2020) brain that emphasized in larger family sizes children, are associated fueling with a higher physical risk of activity, malnutrition due to resource scarcity and limited access to cognitive function, and growth. Kim et food, especially in contexts of poverty. al. (2020) and Oklahoma State University (2021) recommend that school- aged children receive 65% of their total daily calories from carbohydrates to ensure sufficient intake of this essential macronutrient. WHAT IS THE LEVEL OF MALNUTRITION AMONG SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN IN UDAGRI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN TERMS OF: The statement "I make my child take nutritional supplements every week (e.g., vitamins, minerals, herbs)" was interpreted as moderate extent with a weighted mean of 3.14. The lack of The family demographics consistent nutritionalof the respondents also provide supplementation valuable insights. The prevalence of families with 4-6 members in children with an incomplete diet can (60.5%) indicates a significant impact of family size on nutritional increase outcomes. Ahmadtheiret al.vulnerability to larger (2020) emphasized that nutrient family sizes are associated leading deficiencies, with a higherto risk of malnutrition various due to health resource scarcity and limited access to food, especially in and developmental challenges. The contexts of poverty. World Health Organization (2024) emphasizes the critical role of vitamins, minerals, and other micronutrients in supporting essential physiological processes for optimal growth and development. WHAT IS THE LEVEL OF MALNUTRITION AMONG SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN IN UDAGRI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN TERMS OF: The result on level of Malnutrition among School aged showed a grand weighted mean of 3.51 with a verbal interpretation of high extent. Based on the findings, among sub- variables, Nutritional Assessment The family demographics (3.79), of the respondents Food also provide Consumption valuable (3.61), of insights. The prevalence and Supplements families with 4-6 members (60.5%) indicates (3.14). The astudy's significantfindings impact of family size on nutritional emphasis the outcomes. Ahmad et al. (2020) emphasized that larger family need for holistic approaches that sizes are associated with a higher risk of malnutrition due to integrate resource scarcityacademic and and limited access nutritional to food, especially in interventions. contexts According of poverty. to UNICEF Philippines (2023), Addressing malnutrition not only contributes to better health outcomes but also enhances students' readiness to learn, cognitive abilities, and academic achievements. WHAT IS THE LEVEL OF MALNUTRITION AMONG SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN IN UDAGRI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN TERMS OF: In terms of academic participation, "How often does my child focus on improving his/her overall school performance?" received a high extent verbal interpretation with a weighted mean of 4.09, highlighting The family demographics of the respondents also provide valuable the importance placed on enhancing insights. The prevalence of families with 4-6 members (60.5%) indicates a academic performance significant impact among of family size on nutritional children. outcomes. AhmadThis et al. focus (2020) can benefit emphasized them that larger in various family sizes ways, are associated with a as it higher risk of malnutrition due to resource scarcity and limited access to food, not only helps them excel in their studies but especially in contexts of poverty. also lays the foundation for a prosperous and satisfying future. School-aged children face a high risk of nutritional problems that can significantly impact their academic performance (Gita et al., 2022). WHAT IS THE LEVEL OF MALNUTRITION AMONG SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN IN UDAGRI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN TERMS OF: Based on attendance records at Udagri Elementary School, 33 out of 81 students (40.7%) maintained perfect attendance over a 40-day period. Consistent attendance enables children to forge friendships, foster connections with teachers, and enhance their social skills, thereby The family demographics of the respondents also provide valuable insights. contributing to their overall social growth. The prevalence of families with 4-6 members (60.5%) indicates a significant Proper impact ofbrain development family size in children on nutritional outcomes. leads Ahmad et al. (2020) to increased emphasized thatschool attendance larger family and with sizes are associated thea higher ability to risk of malnutrition due to resource pay attention scarcitycomplete in class, and limited access to food, especially homework, and in contexts of poverty. succeed academically. It also reduces the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors (The Globe and Mail, 2021). Improved nutrition can positively influence a student's performance and behavior, leading to fewer absences and better class attendance (Department of Education - DepEd Naga, 2018). WHAT IS THE LEVEL OF MALNUTRITION AMONG SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN IN UDAGRI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN TERMS OF: In terms of GPA, 47 out of 81 students (58.0%) have a good GPA. Achieving a high GPA fosters a sense of discipline and enhances time management skills in children. The process of maintaining a good GPA also imparts valuable lessons on goal setting, persistence in overcoming obstacles, and the importance of continuous effort. Furthermore, a The family demographics of the respondents also provide valuable strongThe insights. academic performance prevalence of families with 4-6 can memberselevate (60.5%)aindicates child'sa self-assurance significant impact ofand familybelief size on in their abilities, nutritional inspiring outcomes. Ahmad et al. them (2020) to pursue emphasized that excellence inare larger family sizes various areas associated with aof their higher risk of malnutrition lives. due to resource In maintaining thescarcity GPA and ,It limited access to has been food, shown that food especially intake in contexts greatlyof poverty. helps academic achievement, particularly GPA, in various population groups, such as children and adolescents. The majority of research to date has been on proper nutritional consumption, and data indicates that higher GPA is positively correlated with both greater frequency of nutritional quality (Burrows et al., 2024). WHAT IS THE LEVEL OF MALNUTRITION AMONG SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN IN UDAGRI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN TERMS OF: The result on level of Academic Performance among School aged showed a grand weighted mean of 3.81 with a verbal interpretation of high extent. Based on the findings, among sub- variables, Academic Participation (3.88), The family demographics Attendance of the respondents also provide (4.07), valuable Grade insights. Point Average The prevalence of families with (3.48). 4-6 membersThe (60.5%)study's indicates a significant impact findings of family size highlight theon nutritional multifacetedoutcomes.nature Ahmad et ofal. (2020) emphasized that larger family sizes are associated with a higher risk factors influencing of malnutrition due to resourceacademic performance scarcity and limited access to food, among school-aged especially in contexts ofchildren. poverty. While academic participation, attendance, and GPA are significant indicators. Addressing issues such as malnutrition is equally essential for promoting holistic academic success and supporting the overall well-being of students (Anna Malki, 2019) Significant relationship between the Level of Malnutrition and Academic performance among School-aged Children in Udagri Elementary School. The result shows that there is a significant relationship between malnutrition and academic performance among school-aged children at Udagri Elementary School. The statistical analysis yielded a high degree of correlation, with an R-value of 0.83, indicating a strong association between these variables. Moreover, the rejection of the null hypothesis with a t-value of +13.06 further confirms the significance of this relationship. This finding underscores the critical impact of nutritional status on the academic outcomes of school- aged children. CONCLUSION CONCLUSION In conclusion, the research conducted at Udagri Elementary School has provided valuable insights into the relationship between malnutrition and academic performance among school-aged children. The findings revealed a significant correlation between these variables, as evidenced by a high degree of correlation (R-value = 0.83) and the rejection of the null hypothesis (t-value = +13.06).. This underscores the importance of adequate nutrition for cognitive and physical development, as malnutrition negatively impacts learning abilities (Wang, 2020; Asmare et al., 2018). Aligning with Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, nutrition is fundamental for children's growth and academic potential. Therefore, implementing school feeding programs and raising awareness about proper nutrition are essential. Research indicates that schools significantly influence children's dietary habits, as they spend considerable time there, making the school food environment pivotal in shaping their eating behaviors (Wang & Stewart, 2019). CONCLUSION Government initiatives, such as the Rice Fortification Law (RA.8976) and the First 1,000 Days Program, aim to address malnutrition and improve food security (WFP Study on Iron Rice Fortification, 2023; Likhar & Patil, 2022). Enhanced funding and strategic programs like the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) also support these goals (Kris, 2024). Collaborating with international organizations ensures alignment with global nutrition standards, fostering healthier communities and supporting educational outcomes. Moreover, involving nursing students in these government programs fosters their development in cultural competency, leadership, and preventive care, which are critical for improving community health outcomes.These experiences equip student nurses to become more effective and compassionate nurses who are committed to addressing the root causes of malnutrition and promoting health equity. RECOMMENDATION RECOMMENDATION Based on a thorough evaluation and considering the findings and conclusions of the study, several recommendations are proposed to address malnutrition in the Udagri Community: 1. A Republic Act 11037 known as the “Masustansyang Pagkain para sa Batang Pilipino Act” and the DepEd Memorandum No. 291,s. 2019 are focus on providing access to nutritious food, promoting healthy eating habits, and supporting children's overall well-being. This includes developing comprehensive school-based feeding programs to address malnutrition among public school students, particularly those school aged tailored to improve their health and academic performances and the cultural context of the Udagri Community. Additionally, community-based nutrition programs targeting vulnerable populations, particularly school-aged children, should be modified to improve access to nutritious foods and provide necessary nutrition counseling and support services throughout the school year. RECOMMENDATION 2. Collaboration among various stakeholders is essential for effectively addressing malnutrition. Strong partnerships between Udagri Elementary School, Local Health Departments, Public Health nurses, Community Health Centers, and the Barangay Conel Captain, Mrs. Tessie Cabunilas Agbayani should be fostered to provide nutrition counseling, support services, and monitor children's nutritional status. Engaging community organizations, including NGOs, faith-based organizations, and community groups, will support nutrition interventions and promote healthy food environments. Moreover, active involvement from the Department of Education (DepEd) and the school head, Mrs. Mary Aileen T. Saldaña is crucial in providing resources, training for schools, and advocating for policy changes that promote food security and healthy food environments. RECOMMENDATION 3. Parents play a crucial role in addressing malnutrition and promoting healthy eating habits among children. It is recommended that parents actively participate in their children's nutrition by providing balanced meals at home, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins. Parents should also educate themselves about the importance of nutrition and the impact it has on their children's academic performance and cognitive development. Engaging in school and community-based nutrition programs, attending nutrition, and collaborating with teachers and healthcare providers will help parents reinforce healthy eating habits and support their children's overall well-being. Additionally, parents should encourage regular physical activity and limit the intake of sugary drinks and snacks to promote a healthy lifestyle. RECOMMENDATION 4. Addressing the root causes of food insecurity and malnutrition requires implementing poverty reduction strategies, such as providing access to education, employment opportunities, and social safety nets. Expanding existing food security programs, like food stamps and school lunch initiatives, is essential to ensure all children in the Udagri community have access to nutritious food. Furthermore, improving access to affordable and quality healthcare services, including preventive care and nutrition counseling, particularly for low-income families, is vital. RECOMMENDATION 5. Raising community awareness about the importance of nutrition is also essential. Public awareness campaigns should be conducted regularly to educate parents and communities on healthy eating habits and the relationship between malnutrition and academic performance. Integrating nutrition education into the school curriculum at all levels is necessary, emphasizing balanced diets, healthy food choices, and physical activity. Additionally, utilizing media platforms to promote healthy eating habits and advocate for policy changes supporting healthy food environments is important. RECOMMENDATION 6. A continued research is needed to understand the long-term effects of malnutrition and develop effective interventions. Ongoing studies should explore the impact of malnutrition on academic performance and cognitive development in the Udagri community, while also evaluating the effectiveness of different nutrition programs and culturally appropriate interventions. Regular assessments of these programs are necessary to identify areas for improvement and ensure they meet the needs of children in the community. Establishing robust data collection and monitoring systems will be crucial in tracking malnutrition rates, identifying risk factors, and evaluating the impact of interventions in Udagri. OPEN FORUM