SPECIFIC CORRELATED FACTORS TO UNDERNUTRITION AMONG CHILDREN 0-59 MONTHS IN MUBENDE DISTRICT: A CASE STUDY OF MUBENDE REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL, CENTRAL UGANDA.

Abstract

Background:

Malnutrition is one of the major causes of mortality and morbidity among children 0-59 months of age not only in Uganda but worldwide. To understand the causes of malnutrition among children who are 0-59 months of age, a study was conducted in Mubende Regional Referral Hospital, Mubende district in the south-central region of Uganda to find out the specific correlated factors responsible for undernutrition children of this age category.

Methodology:

The data was collected from MMRH by use of a structured questionnaire that involved Child anthropometry, Child-related factors, maternal-related factors, and male involvement. Univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analysis of data was done in MS Excel, Epi Info program-nutrition module, and Stata statistical software.

Results:

It was found out that caretaker (P=0.03, 0.01, 0.00), age at which the mother got first born (P=0.00, 0.00, 0.02), maternal occupation (P=0.02, 0.00, 0.01), and maternal education level (P=0.03, 0.02, 0.01) were the major factors influencing on undernutrition (wasting, stunting and underweight) respectively. The study also noted that male involvement in activities to address childhood undernutrition was mainly in purchasing food while other activities were not paid much attention to.

Conclusion:

The study identifies that caretaker, age at which the mother got first born, maternal occupation, and maternal education level were the major factors influencing undernutrition in children 0-59 months of age in Mubende Regional Referral Hospital, Mubende district.

Recommendation:

The study recommends the government strengthen its poverty alleviation programs to improve household incomes, as a basis for food security. Further studies have also been recommended to be carried out with male partners themselves to understand their perspective.