Knowledge, attitude and practice on complementary feeding among mothers of children aged 6-24 months in Public Health Midwives Areas with high prevalence of malnutrition in Batticaloa MOH.

Abstract

Malnutrition is a major health problem in developing countries. Children aged 6- 24 months are more vulnerable to malnutrition. Exclusive breast feeding for the six months followed by complementary feeding along with breast feeding is vital for proper growth and development of a children. Proper knowledge, attitude and practice about complementary feeding among mothers is an important step to prevent malnutrition in children. Aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice regarding complementary feeding among mothers of children aged 6-24 months in Public Health Midwives areas with high prevalence of malnutrition in Batticaloa. A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted among 284 mothers of children aged 6-24 months in Public Health Midwives (PHM) areas with high prevalence of malnutrition in Batticaloa Medical Officer of Health (MOH). The selected PHM areas were Thiraimaddu, Mattikali, Kokuvil, Manchanthoduvai, Iruthyapuram East and Sinnaurani. The study period was from October 2019 to September 2020. Samples were selected with simple random sampling method. Data were collected by interviewer administered questionnaire and self-administered questionnaire with appropriate guidance. The association of knowledge and practice with the demographical factors was assessed by chi square test. Attitude is given as descriptive data. Total of 284 participants were recruited for this study. About 46% knew continue breast feeding along with complementary feeding. The correct knowledge of initiation of complementary feeding was found in 72.9%. About 79% had knowledge about impact of late initiation of complementary feeding. Overall knowledge of complementary feeding was satisfactory (53.9%), and that was associated with high level of educated mothers and economic status. About 96% of practiced good hygiene before feeding their child. Overall attitude toward complementary feeding is positive. About 87% of the mothers feed their children by themselves. Only 49% were practiced correct frequency of introducing new food per week. Only 15.3% avoiding adding salt child’s meal. Although most (70.2%) feed their child during illness, but only 4.5% gave adequate amount. Overall practice was satisfactory only in 46% and associated with economic status of family. Half of the mothers’ overall knowledge regarding complementary feeding was satisfactory but overall practice was unsatisfactory. Education level of mothers and monthly income were significantly associated with complementary feeding. It is essential to give accurate information and education about complementary feeding to prevent malnutrition and improve the health status of children.