Adolescence is a critical phase of rapid growth that demands extra energy and nutrients. Inadequate nutrition during this period—especially among girls—can have serious, long-term health consequences. Poor growth and undernutrition in adolescence increase the risk of developing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease later in life. These effects may also be passed on to the next generation, influencing the health of their future children.

The DERVAN Cohort is the first detailed, long-term study of its kind in the Konkan region. It aims to investigate the biological, nutritional, and cognitive profiles of adolescent girls, and to follow them—and their offspring—for 20 years. The ultimate goal is to identify early-life risk factors for diabetes and related NCDs, enabling preventive measures to be developed and implemented.