FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO MALNUTRITION AMONG CHILDREN BELOW FIVE YEARS AT PAEDIATRICS WARD AT KIBOGA DISTRICT HOSPITAL, KIBOGA DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Introduction

Malnutrition is a deficiency or improper intake of energy and nutrients. It includes undernutrition (wasting, stunting, underweight, and micronutrient malnutrition) and overnutrition (obesity, some malignancies, and non-communicable illnesses).

Objectives of the study

To identify the social demographic factors, to determine the economic factors, and to assess the knowledge of parents or caregivers on factors contributing to malnutrition among children less than five years old in Kiboga District Hospital, Kiboga District.

Methodology 

A cross-sectional descriptive study design was used, using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The researcher conveniently sampled 100 respondents. Data collection was by using self-administered questionnaires which were filled and later analyzed using tables and pie charts.

Results

Out of the 100 respondents, the Majority; 71 (72%) of the respondents’ children were female and 29(29%) were male. The majority 80(80%) reported that poverty leads to malnutrition and 20(20%) which is the minority reported that it doesn’t. The majority 65(65%) reported that the caretaker’s occupation can lead to malnutrition and the minority 35(35%) reported that it does not affect malnutrition. The majority of the respondents 60(60%) knew the causes of malnutrition while the minority 40(40%) did not.

Conclusion

The study identified that poverty, caretaker’s occupation; sex, age, and residence are contributing to malnutrition among children below five years at Kiboga District Hospital, Kiboga district. It also established that respondents had good knowledge about factors contributing to malnutrition.

Recommendation 

The in-charge of Kiboga District Hospital should ensure health education about malnutrition among children below five years of age through outreaches to enrich the community with more knowledge about the condition.