Dietary Management and Socio Demographic Status of Day Labourers of Selected Areas in Dhaka City

Abstract

This cross-sectional study explores the complex interactions between day laborers' socio demographic status and their dietary control in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The goal of this study is to find out how day Labor's in Dhaka handle their diets and how their eating habits relate to their social Condition. A semi-structured stand questionnaire was used to collect data from the respondents. The study utilized survey data from 200 Day laborers in Dhaka, collecting information on their socio-demographic characteristics and dietary patterns. Chi-square analyses and Correlation were conducted to explore the relationships between dietary habits and socio- demographic variables. Most of the people were between the ages of 25 and 34, with a relatively younger population overall. A large number of the people only had a primary (32.5%) or secondary (34.5%) education. The largest income group earned 10,000-20,000 BDT (38%). Mostday laborers were in transportation (34.5% of all day workers) or as hawkers (24% of all day workers). Most of them lived in low-cost rental housing (49.5%) or in slums or other unofficial settlements (24.5%). 80.5% of people only ate fruits and vegetables once or twice a week. 72.5 percent of people ate protein-rich foods every day. Most people (40%) ate dairy products between three and six times a week. 31.5% ate processed foods between three and six times a week. This research highlights the dietary habits of day laborers in Dhaka, indicating a need for improved access to information about healthy eating. It also demonstrates significant associations between dietary habits and socio-demographic factors such as age, gender, education, income, and type of work (p<0.05). These findings can inform targeted interventions to promote healthier dietary practices among day laborers in Dhaka, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being. Keywords – Day laborer, Dietary Intake Pattern, Nutritional Status, Access to the Information.