Master of Science in Human Nutrition

Effectiveness of Community Health Promoters in Mitigating Malnutrition Among Children Under 5 Years During Drought Periods in Isiolo County, Kenya

2025-10-01T00:00:00Z

Effectiveness of Community Health Promoters in Mitigating Malnutrition Among Children Under 5 Years During Drought Periods in Isiolo County, Kenya Njambi, Njeri Elaine Malnutrition remains a leading cause of child morbidity and mortality, particularly in drought-prone, low-resource settings such as Isiolo County, Kenya. Despite national efforts through the Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition (IMAM) and the IMAM Surge strategy, malnutrition rates in the county continue to surpass national averages. Community Health Promoters (CHPs) are critical frontline actors in detecting, referring, and educating communities on child nutrition; however, evidence on their effectiveness during emergencies remains limited. This study assessed the capacity and challenges of CHPs in mitigating child malnutrition during drought periods. A cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted among 380 CHPs selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires and analyzed through descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings revealed that although most CHPs had received basic nutrition training, only half had undergone refresher or Surge-specific training, and 43.4% expressed confidence in identifying malnutrition cases. Referral mechanisms were widely practiced, with caregiver acceptance rates reaching 97.4%, yet logistical, financial, and supervisory challenges hindered consistency. High workloads some CHPs covering over 100 households further reduced service quality and morale. Socio-cultural barriers, including traditional beliefs, gender dynamics, and language differences, also limited program uptake. The study concludes that CHPs are indispensable in combating malnutrition during droughts but are constrained by systemic, operational, and cultural barriers. Strengthening their effectiveness requires continuous capacity building, equitable workload distribution, logistical and financial support, culturally responsive community engagement, and integration of CHPs into formal health systems through mentorship and supportive policy frameworks.

Dietary and Nutritional Risk Factors for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Case at Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya

2025-10-01T00:00:00Z

Dietary and Nutritional Risk Factors for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Case at Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya Onono, Rebecca Kivuli The increasing incidence of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is linked to changing diets, environmental exposures, limited diagnostic access, and treatment costs. Lacking clear guidance, many patients adopt restrictive diets that can harm their health. Nutritional interventions should therefore go beyond meeting energy and nutrient needs to support disease management. Growing evidence shows that certain foods influence inflammation, underscoring the importance of individualized, evidence-based dietary strategies for IBD care.To identify, understand and evaluate the Dietary and Nutritional Risk factors associated with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. This study used an analytical observational design with a hospital-based cross-sectional approach at Kenyatta National Hospital. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize socio-demographic, clinical, and dietary characteristics of participants. Group differences for categorical variables were assessed using χ² tests (with Fisher’s exact test where expected cell counts were <5). All tests were two-sided with α=0.05. Missing data were handled by pairwise exclusion for all inferential analyses; for descriptive summaries, available-case denominators are shown. Specifically, for the binary endpoints Core IBD Therapy and Adjunct Comorbidity Care, records with missing values in the outcome or any included covariate were excluded pairwise from the relevant analyses. Use of core IBD pharmacotherapy was higher in IBD than GD (100% vs 75.3%; p<0.001). IBD patients more frequently reported therapeutic supplements (62.5% vs 39.2%; p=0.016) and preventive supplements (40.0% vs 15.2%; p=0.003). Restrictive therapeutic diets were common (47.5% IBD vs 34.2% GD; p=0.159). Diarrhea was more frequent in IBD (75.0% vs 50.6%; p=0.011); vomiting did not differ. Rates of documented nutritional deficiency (~60%) and malnutrition (~40%) were similar across groups. Diet intake patterns showed high reliance on staples and plant based proteins, with selective avoidance of animal fats and some animal proteins. IBD patients reported greater dietary variety, consuming more fruits, vegetables, dairy, and healthy fats compared to those with gastroesophageal disorders, who tended to restrict foods to prevent reflux. This reflects IBD patients’ active dietary management to control symptoms and maintain nutrition. They also relied more on supplements and therapeutic diets, such as low-residue or lactose-free plans, to ease gastrointestinal discomfort. Despite occasional food aversions and reduced diversity, most maintained adequate caloric intake, with only severe cases requiring medical nutrition support—highlighting the importance of individualized dietary care in managing IBD.

Factors Influencing the Uptake of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services Among Adolescent Girls in Humanitarian Crises: A Case Study of Bor County, South Sudan.

2025-11-01T00:00:00Z

Factors Influencing the Uptake of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services Among Adolescent Girls in Humanitarian Crises: A Case Study of Bor County, South Sudan. Areet, Areet Ayuen Sexual and reproductive health services are critical to the well-being of adolescent girls, yet those in humanitarian crises face several obstacles in accessing these essential services. Despite recognition of these vulnerabilities, significant gaps remain in understanding the specific SRH challenges faced by adolescent girls in South Sudan. The study adopted a mixed method research design and targets adolescent girls aged 15-19 years. By adopting purposive sampling, the study involved key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and adolescent girls to gather comprehensive data. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the primary data of quantitative nature. SPSS Version 25 was used to analyze data from the questionnaire. On the other hand, thematic analysis with NVivo software was done for qualitative data. Ethical considerations included informed consent, data protection, and culturally appropriate engagement with participants was used appropriately. The study revealed that accessibility was the most influential factor (Beta = 0.311, p = 0.021), with long distances to clinics, poor transportation, and lack of youth friendly services as major barriers. Awareness and knowledge (Beta = 0.219, p = 0.032) were hindered by inadequate school-based SRH education and reliance on peers, often leading to misinformation. Psychosocial factors (Beta = 0.201, p = 0.001), including stigma, fear of judgment, and trauma, significantly discouraged service utilization. Socio cultural and economic factors (Beta = 0.156, p = 0.002), such as cultural taboos and poverty, had the least but still significant impact. The regression model indicated that these four factors accounted for 52.4% of the variance in SRH service uptake. To improve SRH service uptake, the study recommends establishing youth-friendly satellite clinics and mobile health units in rural areas, to enhance geographic accessibility. Comprehensive sexuality education should be integrated into school curricula, supplemented by peer education and media campaigns to boost awareness. Community sensitization programs involving leaders and parents are needed to destigmatize SRH topics. Healthcare providers should be trained in adolescent-friendly and trauma-informed care, with strict privacy protocols. Psychosocial counseling and peer support groups should be integrated into SRH services to address emotional barriers. Finally, strengthening supply chains for SRH commodities is critical to ensure consistent service availability.

Factors Influencing Mixed Feeding Practices among Infants below 6 -Months in Wajir County, Kenya

2024-09-01T00:00:00Z

Factors Influencing Mixed Feeding Practices among Infants below 6 -Months in Wajir County, Kenya Ibrahim, Khadija Mohamed; In Wajir County, around 749 infants under six months die annually. The 2014 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS) revealed that just 32% of babies in this age group are exclusively breastfed, while many mothers introduce supplementary foods prematurely. This study aimed to examine the factors influencing mixed feeding practices among babies under six months in Wajir County. The study systematically examined infant feeding practices, assessed socio-cultural influences, evaluated maternal skill, and studied economic factors affecting mixed feeding. The research employed the Theory of Planned Behavior, the Interactive Breastfeeding Theory, and the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA). A descriptive cross-sectional design was utilized, focusing on a quantitative data collection approach. The study examined 802 mothers of infants under six months, utilizing a sample size of 260 individuals. Data was processed using SPSS version 26 for analysis. Data were analyzed using univariate analysis and this enabled the researcher to achieve descriptive statistics. The study found that 63.1% of mothers had low knowledge of mixed feeding practices, with a mean knowledge score of 6.8 (SD=1.7) out of 12. Significantly, 58.8% of mothers practicing mixed feeding were unemployed (χ2=109.780, p<0.001). 97% relied on market purchases for food, and 40.1% were moderately food insecure. Cultural factors played a role, with 81.3% reporting taboos affecting infant feeding (χ2=17.431, p=0.001). Despite recommendations, 79.8% introduced complementary foods at 6 months, while 20.2% introduced them earlier. Based on the findings, it can conclude that maternal knowledge of mixed feeding practices in Wajir County is generally low. Economic factors, particularly unemployment and food insecurity, significantly influence mixed feeding practices. Cultural beliefs and taboos play a substantial role in determining infant feeding choices. Despite health recommendations, a considerable proportion of mothers introduce complementary foods earlier than the recommended 6 months. These factors collectively contribute to suboptimal mixed feeding practices among infants below 6 months in the study area. The study therefore recommended that health authorities should intensify education programs to improve maternal knowledge of mixed feeding practices. Local governments need to launch economic empowerment initiatives to tackle unemployment and food insecurity. Community leaders should work together with health professionals to overcome cultural taboos affecting infant feeding. Healthcare providers ought to enhance counseling regarding the appropriate timing for introducing complementary foods. Policymakers should create targeted interventions that promote optimal mixed feeding practices, taking into account the unique socio-economic and cultural context of Wajir County.

Comparative Study of Rice Bran Utilization And Anthropometric Profiles of Children Aged 6-59 Months in Rice-Growing Counties Kirinyaga, Kisumu and Kwale in Kenya

2024-09-01T00:00:00Z

Comparative Study of Rice Bran Utilization And Anthropometric Profiles of Children Aged 6-59 Months in Rice-Growing Counties Kirinyaga, Kisumu and Kwale in Kenya ODINGO, SYLVIA KAVAI Undernutrition is a critical global health issue, responsible for over half of all deaths among children under five. In developing countries, an estimated 143 million children are underweight, with Kenya reporting 82,000 annual deaths, significantly affecting vulnerable rural populations. This study provides a baseline assessment of the nutritional status of children aged 6-59 months in the rice-growing regions of Kirinyaga, Kisumu, and Kwale counties in Kenya. The study aimed to establish the prevalence of undernutrition and to determine whether rice bran is could be utilized in complementary feeding practices within these communities. This baseline data is crucial for designing and introducing a rice bran feeding trial to potentially improve child nutrition outcomes. Simple random sampling selected 30 households with children under five years in each cluster. Using a cross-sectional study design, data collection involved semi-structured questionnaires administered to caregivers per region. A total of 1,218 children were assessed between January and march 2023, the sample sizes included about 423 (34.7%) children in Kirinyaga, Kisumu (32.3%), and Kwale 401 (32.9%). Anthropometric measurements of weight, height and mid upper arm circumference (MUAC) were taken using standardized equipment. The ENA for SMART application was used to analyze anthropometric data, interpreted using WHO standards (2006). Comparing underweight prevalence of this study with the Kenya Demographic Health Survey (KDHS) 2022 report, Kwale had 14%, Kirinyaga 6%, and Kisumu 4%, while this study’s prevalence was 9.6% KWwale,4.7% Kirinyaga and 1.5% in Kisumu. Severe Stunting rates were also Slightly lower: Kirinyaga (12.1%), Kisumu (11.1%), and Kwale (17.1%) compared to the reported KDHS 2022 Severe stunting prevalences of Kiriyanga 11%, Kisumu 9% and Kwale 23.0%. For severe Wasting, Kirinyaga was 3.7%, Kisumu 2.2% while Kwale gave 5.2% Prevalence. High rates of malnutrition were observed, particularly in Kwale, where severe stunting affected 17.1% of children, severe wasting was present in 5.3%, and edema was recorded in 12.9% of cases. In all the three selected Rice growing areas the male children had a significantly higher frequency of stunting, Compared to female children. Further results indicate that while awareness of rice bran is relatively high in some regions—77.6% in Kirinyaga and 70.8% in Kisumu—it is overwhelmingly perceived as animal feed rather than as a food supplement for humans. A minority of participants across all regions agree that rice bran is a nutritious food product with significant health benefits. Only 19.6% of the total respondents agree with this statement, while 34.0% remain neutral, and a substantial 46.7% disagree. Regionally, Kwale has the highest agreement (27.4%), followed by Kirinyaga (24.6%) and Kisumu (6.1%). This indicates a general lack of recognition of the health benefits of rice bran among the communities. A majority of respondents perceive rice bran as best suited for feeding animals, with 55.3% agreeing with this statement. County governments in Kirinyaga, Kisumu, and Kwale should implement agricultural policies promoting rice bran awareness and its nutritional importance among farming households and consumers. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term effects of rice bran consumption on child nutrition and to identify the most effective strategies for its integration into local diets.

Comparative Analysis of Diarrhoeal Morbidity and Complementary Feeding Practices Among Children 6-59 Months In Rice Growing Regions of Kirinyaga, Kisumu and Kwale County

2024-09-01T00:00:00Z

Comparative Analysis of Diarrhoeal Morbidity and Complementary Feeding Practices Among Children 6-59 Months In Rice Growing Regions of Kirinyaga, Kisumu and Kwale County GODANA, HALIMA Globally, diarrhea remains a significant public health concern, affecting an estimated 2.5 billion children under five annually and contributed to 10% mortality in 2015. In Africa, approximately 696 million under-fives contract diarrhea each year, with Kenya experiencing a high burden, as 25% of deaths in this age group are attributed to diarrhea, in 2011, deaths of under-fives due to diarrhea was 38,822 .Proper complementary feeding is essential for child’s health, inadequate practices can lead to malnutrition and disease. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of infectious diarrhea and complementary feeding practices among children aged 6-59 months in rice-growing regions of Kirinyaga, Kisumu, and Kwale. Objectives included assessing morbidity rates of infectious diarrhea, evaluating complementary feeding practices, gathering demographic and socioeconomic data from caregivers, and analyzing sanitation and food hygiene practices. Method: Cross-sectional descriptive study design was used. Fichers formular was used to get the sample size which was 384 for each region, Kisumu, Kwale and Kirinyaga respectively. Simple random sampling was used to obtain 30 households with child under five years who were interviewed in each cluster. Semi-structured questionnaire was the tool used for data collection which was administered to the caregiver. Ethical consideration was followed where informed consent was obtained from caregivers before the interview. Data entry and analysis was done using SPSS version 26. Information on diet diversification was collected using a 24-hr recall questionnaire as well as a 1-week food frequency interview questions, these were analyzed by calculating diet diversity score. Descriptive statistic was used to analyze general questionnaire. Chi square was used to compare the findings between the three counties. Results: 60.2% of household head in all the three counties had primary level as the highest education level attained,33.8% were farmers while 24.0% were casual labors, the two making most occupations of the household heads.61.7% earning monthly income less than ksh 10,000. 42.9% of mothers from Kwale and 36.1% from Kisumu County introduce complementary feeding late after 6 months, compared to Kirinyaga where 36.9% of mothers, start complementary feeding starts at 6 months. Caregivers from Kwale county feeds children once a day at (66.7%) and also twice a day at (56.4%) compared to Kirinyaga and Kisumu where feeding was done more than twice a day at 42.1% and 38.9% respectively, boiling was the predominant method used in preparation of complementary foods across the three counties. On the aspect of diarrhea morbidity, in the last two weeks Kwale County recorded the highest cases of diarrhea in children at 42.5% compared to Kirinyaga (31.8%) and Kisumu (27.5%) and most of this cases did not seek treatment (42.9%) for kwale. A cross the three counties high number of children feed less than normal when they are having diarrhea (59.5%) and they lost weight (62.3%). Tap water was majorly the source of water both during wet and dry season across the three counties at 33.3% and 31.1% respectively. A cross the three counties 45.9% of the households did not have a place for hand washing. When asked about hand washing at the five critical times, 64.6% of the respondent from Kwale county did not wash hands after visiting toilet,40.5%, did not wash hands before handling foods, 41.1%,did not wash hands before feeding children and 48.5%did not wash hands after handling dirts. 95% of the households in Kwale County do open defecation indicating why their diarrhea cases were high. Conclusion: .The practice on complementary feeding was fair, most of the basic criteria of complementary feeding were adhered to, timely introduction, frequency and amount of feeding. Kwale County reported high cases of diarrhea and was doing very poorly in terms of water and sanitation. The study recommends more health education to be given to pregnant and lactating mothers across the three counties on recommended infant young child feeding and Kwale County to be more sensitized on good hygiene and sanitation practice.

Effect of Marketing Strategies on Post-Pandemic Reopening Performance of Star-Rated Hotels in the South Rift Circuit, Kenya

2024-09-01T00:00:00Z

Effect of Marketing Strategies on Post-Pandemic Reopening Performance of Star-Rated Hotels in the South Rift Circuit, Kenya NG’ETICH, PAUL K. The hotel industry in Kenya, as well as across Africa, is fiercely competitive and plays a crucial role in bolstering the nation's economy. It serves as a vital source of foreign exchange, employment opportunities, and revenue. Nevertheless, the advent of the global Covid-19 pandemic has left an indelible mark on the hotel industry, not only in Kenya but worldwide. The imposition of travel restrictions, the need for social distancing, and a substantial decrease in visitor numbers have severely impacted their operations. With the widespread roll-out of mass vaccinations, hotels and the broader tourism sector are now able to reopen. However, their performance during this reopening phase is hampered by a slow recovery in the sector. This is due to persistent travel restrictions in some countries, a sluggish containment of the virus, reduced traveler confidence, and a challenging economic climate. For Kenya's classified hotels that rely heavily on international travelers, the current reopening conditions appear unpromising and could potentially undermine their competitiveness unless they undertake assertive marketing campaigns. This study sought to investigate the marketing strategies employed by star-rated hotels and their impact on their post-pandemic reopening performance in Kenya. The study had the following objectives: to assess the influence of technology-enabled service differentiation strategies on the reopening performance of the hotel industry in Kenya in the post-pandemic context, to examine the impact of product innovation strategies on the reopening performance of the hotel industry in Kenya in the post-pandemic context, to evaluate the influence of market diversification strategies on the reopening performance of the hotel industry in Kenya in the post-pandemic context and to analyze the effectiveness of market growth strategies on the reopening performance of the hotel industry in Kenya in the post-pandemic context. The research drew guidance from the Marketing Mix Theory, Ansoff Growth Matrix Model, and Service Marketing Theory. It employed a cross-sectional survey research design, targeting 47 hotels, lodges, camps, and guest houses in the South Rift Circuit, encompassing Nakuru and Narok counties, using a census approach. Data was gathered through questionnaires administered to the marketing managers of these hospitality establishments. Qualitative data was analyzed through thematic and content analysis using Nvivo, while quantitative data was coded and subjected to analysis through SPSS computer software version 24.0, employing both descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that Market Growth, Product Innovation, Technology Strategy, and Market Diversification all had a significant impact on the post-endemic opening public presentation of star hotels in the Circuit of Southern Rift, Kenya, supported by beta values of 0.807, 0.286, 0.365, and 0.318, respectively. In light of these findings, the study recommends that hotels should prioritize continuous staff training in technology applications, provide tailored services to both individual and group clients, diversify their markets to tap into more potential local and international markets, and emphasize market growth strategies. Additionally, introducing flexible pricing options for clients would facilitate convenient service bookings.

Influence of Psycho-Social Factors on Skin Bleaching Among Women in Nairobi County, Kenya.

2024-09-01T00:00:00Z

Influence of Psycho-Social Factors on Skin Bleaching Among Women in Nairobi County, Kenya. ABDILLE, NASTEHA MOHAMED Skin-bleaching refers to using beauty products like creams and soaps to whiten the skin. Past studies have indicated that skin-bleaching products have negative implications for the user. However, many women in Nairobi County continue applying skin-bleaching products despite evidence that they are harmful. Empirical evidence shows that little attention has been paid to demographic characteristics, body image, and peer pressure as significant factors influencing the continued behavior of skin bleaching among women living in Nairobi County. The current study examined the influence of psycho-social factors on skin bleaching among women in Nairobi County. The study’s objectives were: To examine the influence of demographic characteristics on skin bleaching among women in Nairobi County, to establish the influence of body image on skin bleaching among women in Nairobi County, and to find out the influence of peer pressure on skin bleaching among women in Nairobi County. Objectification and Social Learning theories were adopted to guide the study. The study used descriptive design incorporating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Purposeful sampling was used to recruit 123 women purchasing skin-bleaching products from shops retailing cosmetic products within Nairobi County. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data from the 123 participants while interviews involving 10 participants were conducted to collect qualitative data. The data collection tools were piloted using data collected within Nairobi CBD to ensure their validity and reliability. Quantitative data were analyzed by the use of descriptive statistics such as frequencies, mean, percentage, and standard deviation, and the use of correlation to test the significance of the relationship between the dependent and independent variables. The findings were presented in bar charts and tables. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically and presented in verbatim. The findings based on the responses indicated that the average score of the aggregate items measuring different independent variables were; demographic characteristics (3.06; indifferent), body image (2.94; indifferent), and peer pressure (2.91; indifferent). The scores indicate that demographic characteristics, body image, and peer pressure did not have a strong influence on skin-bleaching. Further correlation analysis denoted a 0.194 correlation between body image and skin bleaching with a p-value of 0.031. This was an indication of a statistically significant and positive relationship between body image and skin-bleaching. The correlations for demographic characteristics and peer pressure were 0.065 and 0.058 with p-values of 0.478 and 0.526 respectively. The figures indicated that demographic characteristics and peer pressure did not have a significant relationship with skin-bleaching. Regression analysis revealed that body image was a significant predictor of skin bleaching with an adjusted R-square value of 0.030 and p-value of 0.031. It was concluded that peer pressure and demographic characteristics did not have a significant relationship with skin-bleaching while body image had a significant influence on skin-bleaching among women in Nairobi County. The findings have added knowledge in the area of skin bleaching within Nairobi and may help psychotherapists and other helpers in designing tailor-made interventions to empower women address body image challenges and desist from bleaching themselves. Further studies focusing on other possible predictor variables of skin bleaching to be conducted within Nairobi and other counties in Kenya.

Assessing Factors Hindering the Effectiveness of The Family Muac Program in Detecting Malnutrition Among Under-Five Years Children in Banisa Sub-County, Mandera County

2024-09-01T00:00:00Z

Assessing Factors Hindering the Effectiveness of The Family Muac Program in Detecting Malnutrition Among Under-Five Years Children in Banisa Sub-County, Mandera County SAIDA, ROBLE HASSAN The Family MUAC Program, which involves training mothers and caregivers to use a Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) tape to detect signs of malnutrition in children, has shown positive outcomes in terms of improving nutrition surveillance and early detection of malnourished children. In its implementation, there have been challenges which have made the program not successful as it was intended. The study general objective focused on the barriers to effectiveness of family MUAC programs in Banisa sub-county in Mandera County. In this case, the study focused on four objectives which included; assessing mothers’ sociodemographic characteristics, socioeconomic factors, health facility services, and training factors’ influence on nutrition surveillance and early detection of malnutrition among children aged 6-59 months in Banisa sub-county in Mandera County. The early detection and nutritional surveillance amounted to effectiveness of the family MUAC programs. The study was guided by Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CBT) which informed the study variables. The study adopted correlation research design, where the study sought to establish any statistically significant correlations between the independent and the dependent variable, effectiveness of family MUAC program. Target population was 293 mothers from Banisa Sub-County, from where a sample size was established at 236 mothers, but managed to get 209 fully filled questionnaires. This corresponded to 89% response rate which was considered adequate for analysis of the findings. The sample size was through systematic simple random sampling method. The researcher interviewed mothers presenting to the clinic until the sample size was achieved. Data collection was primary and the researcher administered questionnaires and interview guides. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 26. Presentation was on tables, frequencies and percentages. Bivariate analysis was done, having Pearson correlations coefficients and multivariate analysis was done through multiple linear regression, with ANOVA and regression coefficients. The findings of the study showed that there was a positive significant relationship between Socio-economic factors, training factors, health facility, and effectiveness of family MUAC programs (p <.001). Only mothers’ characteristics was not significantly correlated to effectiveness of MUAC programs. The study recommendation and conclusion aimed at training mothers to capacity build on using the family MUAC program, and to know the features and indicators to look for in enhancing nutritional surveillance and early detection of malnutrition among children under five.

Factors Associated With the Diet Quality of Mothers and Infants'Birth Weight at Lodwar Referral Hospital in Turkana County-Kenya

2024-09-01T00:00:00Z

Factors Associated With the Diet Quality of Mothers and Infants'Birth Weight at Lodwar Referral Hospital in Turkana County-Kenya EKIRU, EROT JOHN Maternal factors, especially dietary aspects before and after pregnancy, have been shown to impact maternal outcomes over the years. Low birth weight, small for gestational age, and preterm babies have been linked to dietary consumption of the mother during gestation. To help lower these rates of early childhood mortality research was paramount in this sector, especially in low-income countries that have recorded high prevalence of adverse birth outcomes. Maternal nutrition has been spearheaded as a public health concern since it determines the outcome of an individual from childhood up to adulthood and above. The prevalence of low birth weight at Lodwar County, Referral Hospital in Turkana County stands at 14%. The research objectives were to assess the socio-demographic characteristics of mothers, to assess the dietary habits of mothers, to determine the prevalence of low-birth-weight infants born to mothers, and to assess maternal nutritional knowledge of the mothers attending Lodwar Referral Hospital. The main goal was to determine the factors associated with the diet quality of the mothers and the infants' birth weight in Turkana County. The study used a longitudinal study design and involved 500 mothers. The overall response rate was 93 per cent of the mothers who attended ANC in the hospital in 2024. The data was collected using pretested and structured questionnaires. SPSS version 29 was used for analysis. A log-binomial model was used to estimate the adjusted risk ratio and its 95%CI of the risk factors for low birth weight. Multi-collinearity was checked using the variance inflation factor (VIF) at a cut-off point of 8 and multi-collinearity found. Result: The overall incidence of low birth weight was 14% (95% CI: 11.1, 17.4%). The incidence of low birth weight was 18.4 and 9.8%among respondents. The difference in low-birth-weight incidence is statistically significant(p-value=0.006). The risk factors of low birth weight were maternal illiteracy (ARR:1.8,95%CI:1.01,3.3), and low monthly family income<5000 Kshs. (ARR:1.6,95%CI:1.07,2.2), food taboos during pregnancy, (ARR:0.47,95%CI:0.28,0.78), and diet meals number<5 (ARR:1.9,95% CI:1.05,2.61). The results showed that the prevalence of low birth weight was 14% which included 245 mothers of the total number of respondents. Conclusion: Low birth weight was significantly higher among the respondents, who had poor diet quality, and low demographic and economic status. The recommendation was to promote better diet quality and exclusive breastfeeding knowledge, government empowering mothers with financial training programmed mothers support group and further research to be conducted in Turkana to reduce high prevalence cases of low birth weight in Turkana.