Child Feeding Practices and the Prevalence of Under-Nutrition among Preschoolers Living in Matisi Peri-Urban Location, Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya
##article.abstract##
Peri-urban populations are normally characterized by difficult socio-economic situations which are likely to have direct or indirect implications on the child feeding practices, health and the prevalence of under-nutrition among the pre-schoolers. The study aimed at determining the prevalence of under-nutrition in pre-school children and the associated feeding practices in Matisi peri-urban location. A cross-sectional survey design was used. Mother – preschooler pairs (n= 208) were recruited from Matisi peri-urban location, Trans- Nzoia county. The population was peri-urban based and in a slum setting. Children’s anthropometric measurements (weight, height, and MUAC) were taken. Interviewer administered questionnaire gathered socio- demographic and feeding practices data. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 16.0. Chi-square test and logistic regression showedassociations infeeding practiceson the prevalence of under-nutrition. Epi-Info version 3.4.3 analyzed anthropometric data into (SD) indices (HAZ, WHZ and WAZ). The results show that the mean age, weight and height was 38±10.7, 13.7± 2.4 and 91±9.2 months, kg and cm, respectively. Under-nutrition by stunting, underweight and wasting was (24%), (21.6%) and (5.3%) respectively. Children who were fed colostrum had 96.6% less chances of stunting compared to those who were not (p=0.010, OR 0.034, 95%CI 0.003-0.443). Breastfeeding, protein, iron, vitamin C and A intake are significant factors associated with under-nutrition among the pre-schoolers. The government should emphasize proper child feeding methods and consumption of the recommended amount of nutrients. Slum upgrading projects and residents assisted to start Income Generating Activities by the Non Governmental Organizations.
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