Development of tools of Prakriti assessment in neonates- A cross sectional study

Abstract

Prakriti (body constitution) is amalgamation of psychosomatic traits. The inherited features depend upon shukra(sperm) and shonita(ovum), whereas acquired features develop due to environmental elements. Aim of this contemporary study is to assess Prakriti of neonates by psychosomatic and neurological characteristics and objectives are to prepare a comprehensive proforma to assess Prakriti (body constitution) in neonates by using subjective criteria, psychosomatic and neurological characteristics. Material & methods: A total of 100 neonates fulfilling inclusion criteria were enrolled from OPD, IPD of MGACH & RC, DMIHER and NICU, A.V.B.R.H., Sawangi, Wardha, Maharashtra and this prevailing study was conducted as a survey study using a validated questionnaire.  Compilation of a comprehensive list of distinctive traits (predictors) for Prakriti evaluation found in Ayurvedic texts (grouping of items) was used to create N-PAS. Observations & Result: 100 neonates were taken and after applying frequency distribution in descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA in inferential statistics to compare concerned parameters in the N-PAS with anthropometrical measurements, it was observed that Kapha-Vataj Prakriti was found to be more dominant with 27% because in early childhood, kapha dosha is found to be the paramount one. Discussion and Conclusion: This study has a vital role in determining the role of Prakriti in promotion of health, agni status of individual, determination of bala/ strength, diagnosis, management of diseases, prognosis, decision of preventive medicine, determination of genomic relevance with doshik predominance. N-PAS (comprehensive neonatal Prakriti assessment scale) was formed and by analytical statistics, Kapha-Vataj Prakriti (27%) was found to be more dominant.