| dc.description.abstract | UDHS 2016 indicated stunting, wasting and underweight among children under 5 years as 29%, 4% and 11% respectively. Bidibidi presented highest acute malnutrition of 11.8% compared to Westnile settlements, under nutrition is linked to inadequate feeding practices. Study sought to determine association of IYCF practices and nutritional status of children 6-23months in Bidibidi.
Cross sectional design of qualitative and quantitative approaches was conducted with 227 caregivers of children. Used multivariable logistic regression for association between nutrition status and IYCF practices. Used ENA for smart for Z-Scores and STATA version 14. Statistical significance set was p<0.05. Qualitative involved thematic content analysis.
Wasting was (5.7%), stunting (18.1%) and underweight (4.4%). Children who didn’t exclusively breastfeed were 6.6 times more likely to become underweight, (AOR=6.6, 95%CI =1.363 to 31.761, P-value = 0.019). Odds of becoming underweight among children fed >3 times in a day was 0.2 times less than <3times, (AOR=.2, 95%CI = .301 to .929, P-value = 0.041). Children whose mothers attended primary level were 5.5times more likely to become underweight, (AOR= 5.5, 95%CI 1.29 to 30.88, P-value = 0.05).
FGDs perceived barriers to proper IYCF practices included household food insecurity, lack of money, heavy workload, GBV, laziness/lack of social support and cultural practices/norms. Perceived facilitators included nutrition knowledge, desire for child to look healthy, health and nutrition education.
Under-nutrition percentage was poor, mothers faced similar barriers to practicing optimal IYCF practices. Study recommends exclusive breastfeeding encouragement and increased feeds number to curb under-nutrition levels, findings may benefit partners, MOH and policy makers. | en_US |
