Knowledge of Malnutrition among Women of Child Bearing Age in Rivers State College of Health Science and Management Technology Demonstration Clinic, Port Harcourt in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State

Abstract

The study focused on knowledge of malnutrition among women of child bearing age in Demonstration Medical Center of Rivers State College of Health Science and Management Technology Port Harcourt in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State. Introduction: Malnutrition is a condition that results from eating a diet in which one or more nutrients are either not enough or are too much such that the diet causes health problems. Inappropriate and insufficient diet in pregnancy affects maternal health and birth weight negatively, therefore, proper diet that supplies energy for mothers and their fetus is a linear, positive correlation between mothers and fetuses weight. Methodology: The study used a descriptive survey study design with a sample size of 140 which are selected through simple random sampling techniques. A structured questionnaire were used as an instrument for data collection, while SPSS, frequency tables and simple percentage were adopted for data analysis. Result: The findings of the study showed that majority of women of child bearing age attending RIVCOSMAT Demonstration Medical Center have poor or no knowledge of malnutrition and that poverty, food price, dietary practice and health related issues are prominent factors that caused malnutrition. The study revealed that Changes in body mass index, poor healing of wound, severe weight, and Weakness/dizziness are the health effects of malnutrition Also methods of treatment and prevention of malnutrition include dietary advice, eating some sources of proteins and dairy food among others. Conclusion: There should be enlightenment campaign to educate and arouse the awareness level of women of childbearing age about malnutrition by health care providers. Also, health care providers should introduce strategies for providing health education about proper and balance maternal nutrition

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