New Delhi, Sep 26: More than one third of Indian children aged 5-9 are estimated to have high triglycerides, with Jammu & Kashmir, West Bengal, and northeastern states showing the highest prevalence, according to the government’s ‘Children in India 2025’ report.
The report, released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation during the 29th CoCSSO conference in Chandigarh, highlights that 67% of children in West Bengal, 64% in Sikkim, 57% in Assam, 55% in Nagaland, and 50% in Jammu & Kashmir have elevated triglyceride levels, a risk factor for heart disease. States with the lowest prevalence include Kerala (16.6%) and Maharashtra (19.1%).
The study also identifies prematurity and low birth weight as the leading causes of newborn deaths (48%), followed by birth asphyxia (16%) and pneumonia (9%). Additionally, about 5% of teenagers in India are hypertensive, with the highest rates in Delhi (10%), Uttar Pradesh (8.6%), Manipur (8.3%), and Chhattisgarh (7%).
The report sheds light on adolescent health, education, and child protection, revealing overall literacy at 63.1%, with 73.1% literacy among children aged seven and above. Literacy among boys ranges from 80% (7-9 years) to 92% (10-14 years), while girls show 81.2%-90% literacy across age groups.
Compiled using data from the National Family Health Survey (2019-21) and Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (2016-18), the report offers a detailed analysis of child well-being and underscores urgent health and education interventions needed across India. (Agencies)
