DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjams.2026.v14i05.027

Pages: 808-812

Background: Adolescence is a vital period for growth, and poor nutrition can adversely affect present and future health. Malnutrition and anaemia remain common among adolescent girls in both rural and urban settings. Objectives: To assess socio-demographic characteristics, determine factors affecting nutritional status, compare BMI and haemoglobin levels between rural and urban adolescent girls, and examine their association with selected variables. Methods: A descriptive survey was conducted among 400 adolescent girls (200 rural, 200 urban) studying in 8th and 9th standards in selected schools of Bagalkot District. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, biophysical measurements (BMI, haemoglobin), and a diet frequency chart. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including chi-square test. Results: Urban adolescents showed higher rates of binge eating (80%) and breakfast skipping (65%) compared to rural adolescents (50% and 30%). Mild anaemia was prevalent in both groups (47% rural; 53% urban). Undernutrition was higher in rural girls (42.5%) than urban (31.5%), while normal BMI was more common in urban participants. A significant association was found between BMI and area of residence (p = 0.036), but not between breakfast skipping and haemoglobin (p = 0.471). Conclusion: Rural–urban differences exist in dietary practices and nutritional status. Targeted interventions are needed to improve dietary habits and prevent malnutrition and anemia among adolescent girls.