A cross-sectional study of 373 household with 509 children aged 0-59 months was conducted in St. James to be part of a national survey and to be compared with data collected in previous years. The main objectives were to examine nutritional status in ecological areas, and compare factors related to nutritional status in 1982 and 1985 and identify areas and households at risk of malnutrition. The study underscores the need and necessity of a disaggregated database, and careful data collection procedures. The necessity for ongoing assessment is also highlighted by the study, as various factors may intervene over different periods