Assessment of Physical and Mental Health of Children Living in Orphanages in Islamabad- A Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract

Background: Childhood holds immense significance in shaping the physical, mental, and emotional growth of children. Orphaned children face heightened susceptibility to encountering various physical and mental health challenges, thereby depriving them of the opportunity to experience optimal well-being throughout their childhood and beyond. Pakistan is home to an estimated 4.6 million orphaned children, with the majority being under the age of 17. The objective of the study was to assess the mental and physical health of children living in orphanages of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted on a sample of 110 children aged 7 to 18 years, living in orphanages of Rawalpindi and Islamabad to assess their physical and mental health. Anthropometric measurements were taken and the presence or absence of anxiety was determined by using the “Revised Children Manifest Anxiety Scale” (RCMAS) questionnaire.

Results: 50% of the study population was underweight based on their BMI, while 46.36% had normal weight and 1.82% were overweight or obese. Out of the 33 male participants, 20 were found to be underweight. The results of the RCMAS scoring revealed that 20.9% of the children had anxiety, with a higher prevalence among females as compared to males.

Conclusion: Prevalence of underweight was found to be higher among male orphans. Female orphans were more likely to experience anxiety and depression as compared to males.