Abstract
A longitudinal study was conducted in four villages in the Medak district of Andhra Pradesh. One-hundred and ninety-seven children up to four years old were selected from low-income households in the study area. Pre-tested, structured interviews were conducted to collect information on child-related, maternal, paternal, and socio-economic factors from the households. Two child-related factors, number of diarrhoeal episodes and calorie adequacy of diet, showed a highly significant effect on a child's current as well as past nutrition status. The results of this study indicate a strong influence of socio-economic status and parental care on the control of infectious diseases and food intake, which are the two major causes for malnutrition among children in developing countries