Date of Award

12-14-2025

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MSc in Nursing

First Advisor

Ms. Yasmeen Nadeem Parpio

Second Advisor

Dr. Saleema Gulzar

Third Advisor

Ms. Sumiya Andleeb

Department

School of Nursing and Midwifery, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Adolescence is a crucial developmental phase marked by rapid physical, cognitive, and psychological changes that demand adequate and balanced nutrition. Adolescents in developing countries, including Pakistan, are particularly vulnerable to nutritional challenges due to unhealthy eating habits, limited dietary awareness, and socio-economic disparities. Poor nutrition during this period contributes to both undernutrition and overweight, leading to the double burden of malnutrition observed in many low- and middle-income countries.
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the nutritional status of school-going adolescents in Karachi, Pakistan, identify the socio-demographic and behavioral factors associated with it, and examine adolescents’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding nutrition, using the socio-ecological model as a guiding framework.
Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 182 adolescents aged 12–18 years from two private schools in Karachi. Data were collected using a validated Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) and anthropometric measurements (height, weight, and BMI). Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed using IBM SPSS version 22 to determine associations between nutritional status and influencing factors.
Results: More than half of the participants had a normal BMI, while 16.5% were underweight, 9.9% overweight, and 17.0% obese, indicating a double burden of malnutrition. No statistically significant associations were observed between socio-demographic variables and BMI; however, gender-based differences were found. Boys reported more diverse dietary practices, whereas girls demonstrated stronger Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) behaviors.
Conclusions: The coexistence of undernutrition and overweight among adolescents in Karachi underscores the need for multi-level, gender-sensitive, and school-based interventions. Strengthening nutrition education, promoting healthy dietary habits, and enhancing parental involvement are essential strategies to improve adolescent nutritional outcomes and prevent long-term health risks. These findings, viewed through the socio-ecological model, highlight the importance of coordinated efforts among schools, families, and policymakers to develop sustainable and context-specific nutrition programs for adolescents.

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1

Last Page

189

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