CORRELATION OF VITAMIN B12, FOLIC ACID AND IRON DEFICIENCIES ON CLASS PERFORMANCE AND GENERAL FITNESS AMONG SCHOOL GOING CHILDREN

Abstract

Micronutrient deficiencies such as vitamin B12, folic acid, and iron are most prevalent in Pakistan due to less outdoor activities that affect the cognitive and physical development of school-going children. The current study aimed to explore the association and correlation of these deficiencies with class performance and general fitness among school going children of district Sialkot. The study included 300 school-going children aged 10-12 years with an equal distribution of boys and girls. Data was collected from various schools of district Sialkot schools. Approximately 5ml of blood was drawn from each participant and the levels of vitamin B12, folic acid and iron were analyzed. Students found to be deficient in these micronutrients were considered as experimental group while those having no deficiency were considered as control group. Moreover, classroom performance and physical fitness tests were conducted to assess the effects of these deficiencies on class performance and general fitness of students.  Class performance and general fitness were Positive correlation with micronutrient among school going children. Students exhibiting higher micronutrient deficiency led to poorer class performance. The current study emphasizes the need of community nutrition programs, public awareness campaigns and parental education to enhance academic performance, physical fitness, and long-term development of their children which contribute to Pakistan's socio-economic growth.