Factors that contribute to under-fives' malnutrition at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital in Uganda
Malnutrition is a significant global issue, causing between 3.5 and 5 million annual deathsamong under-five children. A study was conducted in Uganda to assess the determinantsof malnutrition among under-five children. The study involved 128 children diagnosedwith malnutrition, with the majority of caregivers being below 35 years old. The studyfound that 77.9% of the mothers were illiterate, and most were housewives. The majorityof caregivers used unprotected water sources for drinking and had poor handwashingpractices. Malnutrition was more prevalent in children aged six to 12 months, with moreboys than girls. Most malnourished children were not premature, and over two-thirds ofchildren admitted to the nutrition ward were immunized. A strong relationship was foundbetween breastfeeding and malnutrition diagnosis. The study suggests that promotingparental education, particularly among mothers, can improve nutritional education andhousehold income. The study highlights the need for better nutrition education andhousehold income for under-five children.