Abstract:
The Integrated Child Development Service (ICDS) programme, launched in India in 1975 to combat child malnutrition, relies on accurate anthropometric measurements, as errors can undermine the impact of its services. This study evaluates the reliability and validity of child anthropometric measurements collected at ICDS centers. Validity was assessed by comparing measurements from ICDS centers with data collected by researchers using trained personnel, employing non-parametric tests like the Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test due to non-normal data distribution. Reliability was analyzed using the Bland-Altman method, which assesses agreement in method comparison studies. The results indicated that weight measurements from ICDS centers lacked validity, as evidenced by differing distributions in the Wilcoxon test, while height measurements were valid. Bland-Altman plots showed that both weight and height measurements were reliable, with most data points falling within the 95% limits of agreement and minimal bias observed. However, the inaccuracy of weight measurements, largely due to faulty devices, remains a significant concern. These inaccuracies can compromise the effectiveness of policies and interventions based on such data, highlighting the need for improved measurement tools in the ICDS program.
