Physical Measurement and Vision Screening Program

Date: 20 May 2026 Introduction Under the Young Leaders Collaboration for Global Health (YLCGH) Nepal initiative, a physical measurement and vision screening program was conducted at Shree Mahendra Gram Secondary School. The activity targeted students from grades 1 to 8 and aimed to assess their nutritional status through anthropometric measurements and identify possible visual impairments through visual acuity screening. The program focused on early screening and timely identification of potential health concerns to facilitate appropriate intervention and referral. Objectives Assess the nutritional status of students through height and weight measurement. Screen students for visual impairment using the Snellen chart. Identify students with possible health concerns requiring further evaluation. Promote early detection and referral for timely medical intervention. Participants Grades: 1 to 8 students Total number of participants: 262 students Methodology The project was conducted systematically across three phases: Phase 1: Registration and Orientation Students were registered grade-wise, and the objectives of the health screening program were explained to both students and teachers. Instructions were provided to ensure smooth coordination during the screening process. Class captains actively assisted the organizing team in managing student flow and maintaining order, which significantly improved crowd management and efficiency during the program. Phase 2: Height and Weight Measurement Height and weight measurements were recorded for all participating students using standard measuring equipment. These measurements were used to assess nutritional status and identify students who may require further nutritional evaluation or follow-up. Phase 3: Visual Acuity Testing Visual acuity screening was conducted using the Snellen chart under appropriate testing conditions. Each student was assessed individually to identify possible difficulties in distant vision and detect students requiring further ophthalmological evaluation. Outcomes Nutritional assessment completed: Height and weight measurements were successfully recorded for all 262 participating students. Visual screening findings: 8 students were identified with reduced visual acuity during the screening process from grade 4-8. Referral and follow-up: The identified students were informed and advised to visit a hospital for further ophthalmological evaluation and appropriate management. Efficient coordination: The active involvement of class captains greatly assisted in crowd management and helped the screening process proceed smoothly and efficiently. Health awareness promotion: The program increased awareness among students and teachers regarding the importance of regular health screening and early detection of health concerns. Observations Students were cooperative and actively participated throughout the screening activities. Teachers and school staff provided valuable support in organizing and coordinating students. The assistance provided by class captains improved student management and reduced delays during the screening process. Most students demonstrated normal visual acuity during the assessment. The screening process was completed efficiently with good cooperation from all grades. Recommendations Regular periodic health screenings: Similar health screening programs should be conducted periodically for early identification of nutritional and visual health concerns. Strengthen referral follow-up: Schools should establish follow-up mechanisms to ensure that students identified during screening receive appropriate medical evaluation and care. Encourage student leadership involvement: Continued involvement of class captains or student volunteers can improve coordination, efficiency, and student participation during future health programs. Conclusion The Physical Measurement and Vision Screening Program conducted at Shree Mahendra Gram Secondary School was successfully completed and achieved its objectives of assessing nutritional status and screening for visual impairment among students. The identification of eight students with decreased visual acuity highlights the importance of routine school-based health screening for early detection and timely referral. The active support of teachers and class captains contributed significantly to the smooth execution of the program. YLCGH Nepal extends sincere gratitude to the school administration, teachers, students, and student leaders for their cooperation and support in making the program successful.