Impact of Flooding on Nutritional Status among Early Childhood Development

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to assess and compare child nourishment in the communities affected by flood and non-affected households based on perception.

Design/Methodology/Approach: The data was collected from flood-affected and non-flood-affected areas of households using a structured questionnaire consisting of both closed-ended and open-ended questions, followed by a face-to-face interview with the mothers or caretakers of children ranging in age from 3–5 years. A case study was also conducted in an exceptional case for further validation to dig deeper. A judgmental sampling technique was used to identify riverine flood-affected areas, and nearby communities was selected for non-flood-affected areas. Non-flood area selected from nearby communities with similar socio-economic backgrounds. The location of Bardiaya, Rajapur, is found to be victimized by the Karnali River of western Nepal every year. The focus group discussed and observation was also done.

The research area was selected as highly affected by summer floods. Information was collected through a structured questionnaire and an in-depth interview with 3-5-year-old children's households’ mothers or caregivers. 

Findings/Result: Both areas found malnutrition, but the flood-affected area was more affected than the non-flood area. Every year, the deepest river in Nepal, Karnali, is affected one to three times annually. Its impact on society is to stay in safe places like community centers, school buildings, and Godam for one to four weeks (7 days to 30 days) annually. The main problem was monsoon flooding from June to September. When the Karnali River floods, the level rises and reaches 11 meters. In the riverbank area, residential people leave their homes and stay as refugees.

Originality/Value: This is the Ex-post facto research to assure impact of flood on child nutrition which will be a guiding document for the creation of health society.

Paper Type: Research paper