A comparative study on the association of chronic energy deficiency with sociodemographic factors among rural and urban populations of the ethnic Punjabi community in Amritsar district

• Author Details:   
• Amrit Pal Singh Brar ^*
• Priyanka Devgun
• Roopandeep Singh Jammu
• Deepinder Pal Singh Brar
• Manpreet Singh

Background: Chronic energy deficiency (CED) refers to a sustained state where an individual's caloric and/or nutrient intake consistently falls short of their energy needs. This prolonged imbalance leads to a negative energy status and is commonly linked to poor nutritional intake, potentially resulting in multiple adverse health outcomes. CED continues to be a significant public health issue in India, especially in populations with socioeconomic disparities. Punjab being considered the food bowel of India, there are many studies conducted on obesity and diabetes in this area but very few studies are available on CED, so this study was planned to this aspect in ethnic Punjabi population.

Materials and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among adults aged 20–60 years, selected from rural and urban areas of the Amritsar district using stratified random sampling. Anthropometric data were collected to calculate Body Mass Index (BMI), with CED defined as BMI <18.5 kg/m². Sociodemographic variables such as age, gender, caste, religion, education, occupation, and income were recorded. Comparative analysis was done using Fisher’s Exact test where applicable.

Results: The prevalence of CED was found to be higher in rural participants compared to their urban counterparts. Statistically significant associations were observed between CED and factors such as age, education, and income levels in both populations.

Conclusion: Sociodemographic determinants significantly influence the distribution of CED in the ethnic Punjabi population. Targeted public health strategies are needed to address rural-urban disparities in nutritional outcomes.