Maternal knowledge and individual influencing factors on nutrition in children under five years attending Kajjansi Health Centre IV, Wakiso District: A descriptive cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background

This study aims to examine Maternal knowledge and influencing factors on nutrition in children under five years attending Kajjansi Health Centre IV, Wakiso District.

 Methodology

A descriptive cross-sectional study design, employing a quantitative research method, was used to obtain data.  The design was chosen because it was cost-saving, easier to carry out, and carried out in a shorter time. The study targeted mothers of children under five years attending Kajjansi Health Centre IV, Wakiso District, during the time of data collection. The collected data was then coded and cleaned to remove any errors or inconsistencies. The cleaned, coded data were then entered into Microsoft Excel 2022 for analysis, and findings were summarized and presented using frequency tables, graphs, and pie charts.

 Results

The majority, 24 (53.3%) of the mothers were aged 29–38 years, followed by 14 (31.1%) aged 18–28 years, 5 (11.1%) were between 39–49 years, and the least 3 (6.7%) were aged 50 years and above. The majority, 29 (64.4%), were not sure which nutrients prevent malnutrition, and 7 (15.6%) correctly identified iron, vitamin A, and zinc as essential. Most respondents, 38 (84.4%), knew that improper feeding has negative effects, while 7 (15.6%) did not know. Many 31 (68.9%) felt that good feeding is very important, while 5 (11.1%) felt it is not important. Most respondents, 28 (62.2%), believed carbohydrates such as rice and porridge are best for growth, whereas 2 (4.4%) alone are most important.

 Conclusions

Many mothers lacked adequate understanding of specific nutrients essential for preventing malnutrition, with the majority unsure of key micronutrients.

 Recommendations

Mothers and caregivers should actively attend growth-monitoring sessions and follow recommended feeding practices by providing balanced meals that go beyond carbohydrate-based foods.