摘要：This study was undertaken among adult (aged > 18 years) male Santals of Orissa and
West Bengal, to compare their anthropometric profile and the prevalence of chronic energy deficiency
(CED), based on body mass index (BMI). Santals of Jhargram, Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal and
Ananadapur, Keonjhar, Orissa were studied. Anthropometric measurements including height, weight
and mid upper arm circumference (MUAC) were measured using standard protocol. The BMI was
derived from height and weight. Internationally recommended BMI cut-off points were utilized to
evaluate nutritional status. Results showed that there were significant differences between the means
of some anthropometric characteristics of the two populations. The extent of CED (BMI < 18.5) was
found to be high in both populations (Orissa = 26.2%; West Bengal = 31.5%). Using the World Health
Organization criterion the prevalence of CED was high and the situation was serious in both populations.
In conclusion, this study provided evidence that the nutritional status of adult Santals, in both Orissa
as well as West Bengal, was not satisfactory. Immediate appropriate nutritional intervention programs
are needed for implementation among Santals of both regions.
关键词：Santals; tribe; body mass index; chronic energy deficiency
