Persistent Prevalence of Malnutrition in Children 0-5 Years in Birim South District

Abstract

Following the persistent high prevalence of malnutrition in children 0-5 years in the Birim south district over the pass years, this study set out to find why this problem exist despite continuous health education on malnutrition. With the permission of the District Health Management Team the study was conducted in response to a felt need. A comparative cross sectional study was conducted using structured questionnaires and observation methods to interview mothers with children 0-5 years to identify reasons why malnutrition is persistently Prevalent in the district and the knowledge, attitude practice and behavior concerning malnutrition. The study revealed the knowledge of respondent on exclusive breast-feeding but not practicing it. Inadequate food supply in households, insufficient and quality food intake by the children had significant effect on the nutritional status of the children The study also revealed that improper care of the child by having many children under 5 contributed to the child being sick e.g. anaemia, diarrhoea, measles which led to malnutrition. It was found that unhygienic and improper sanitary condition also causes diseases like anaemia from worm infestation, diarrhoea etc., which leads to malnutrition. In the study, respondents of both communities rated education on malnutrition as very poor even though they receive health education on malnutrition. Late and early weaning also influenced the nutritional status of the child. Colostrum the first yellowish substance had significant effect on the factors influencing the persisting prevalence of malnutrition in this district. Based on the finding of the study, the following key recommendation would be made to the relevant authorities. 1. Education should stress on good nutrition for the child 2. Exclusive breast-feeding should be stressed 3. Appropriate weaning period should be emphasized to the mothers 4. Colostrum the first yellowish substance should be encouraged 5. The minds of mothers should be disabused on Oseram (the work of the devil) as an ordinary insufficient nutritional or improper food intake of the child