Nutritional status and behaviour difficulties among adolescent girls in a rural area of Ludhiana - A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Adolescence is a vital phase of physical and psychological development, often accompanied by nutritional and mental health challenges. Adolescent girls are especially vulnerable due to the physiological demands of puberty and evolving lifestyle behaviours. OBJECTIVES: To assess the epidemiological correlates of nutritional status and screen exposure among adolescent girls. To study the determinants of mental health difficulties through behavioural screening using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). METHODS: This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2023 to June 2024 among 230 adolescent girls aged 13-17 years in the field practice area of RHTC, Pohir, selected through systematic random sampling. Data on sociodemographic profile, diet, physical activity and screen exposure were collected using a pretested questionnaire. Behavioural screening was done using SDQ. Relevant statistical tests were applied. RESULTS: Among the 230 participants, 24.9% were thin and 10.5% overweight/obese. Central obesity was found in 7.4% which was significantly associated with overweight/obesity (P < 0.001). Calorie intake showed a significant association with BMI (P < 0.001). Screen exposure >2 hours/day was reported by 57.8% and was significantly associated with insufficient sleep (P = 0.007), spectacle use (P = 0.01) and mother's occupation (P < 0.001). Based on SDQ scores, 76.1% had normal, 14.8% borderline and 9.1% abnormal total difficulties scores. CONCLUSION: Adolescent girls exhibited malnutrition and mental health concerns, with screen exposure and dietary patterns playing a significant role. Early and targeted interventions are essential to address these risk factors and promote holistic adolescent health.