Title:
Determinants of Child Nutrition in Nigeria
Authors:
Odufuwa, Bolanle Aderemilekun
Year:
2013
PAGE:
xii, 56
Language:
En
Subject:
Health and Nutrition
Keywords:
Under-Nutrition, Determinants, Under-Five Children, Nigeria
Abstract:
Background: Under-nutrition is a public health issue in sub-Sahara Africa and is widespread in Nigeria. Under-nutrition in all its forms (wasting, stunting and underweight) is rampant in rural areas and more pronounced mostly in the Northern part of the country. The consequences of under-nutrition cannot be overemphasized. It increases the risk of infection, reduces immunity and serves as underlying causes of mortality in under-five. Also its impact on economic growth, productivity and intellectual is enormous. Objectives: The aim of this study is to provide policy makers and stakeholders evidence based-recommendations to reduce levels of under-nutrition among children under-five years in Nigeria. Methods: Literature review was done to identify and describe the determinants of child’s undernutrition using the conceptual frame work for malnutrition as a guide. Results: Inappropriate feeding practices and infections were identified as immediate causes of under-nutrition among children. Underlying causes are lack of access to food, poor access to health care and environment and low maternal education status. Socio-cultural factors, poor access to resources, lack of political will, and weak human and institutional capacity in implementing policies are the basic causes of under-nutrition among children under-five in Nigeria. Conclusion and recommendations: Under-nutrition requires multi sectoral and integrated approach to address its causes. Nigerian government should be more committed financially in nutrition activities and the nutrition program implementing apparatus should be appropriately placed where due attention will be given preferably within the presidency. Lastly, regular research on nutrition and health should be encouraged and health care services should be strengthened.
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
,
VU - Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Institute:
KIT (Royal Tropical Institute)
Department:
Development, Policy and Practice
Country:
Nigeria
Region:
Western Africa
Training:
Master of Public Health / International Course in Health Development (MPH/ICHD)
Category:
Research
Right:
© 2013 Odufuwa
Document type:
Thesis/dissertation
File:
23cKUukdeo_20161103091956317.pdf