Moderate Acute Malnutrition, study of parent’s knowledge and attitudes 12 years after the major food crisis of 2005: Case of department of Mayahi/ NIGER

Résumé

In Niger, the prevalence of moderate acute malnutrition in children aged 6-59 months varies between 10-15%. Community participation is essential in monitoring the nutritional status of children less than five years of age. The objective of this study was to assess parents' knowledge regarding moderate acute malnutrition and the parameters of its management, 12 years after the major food crisis of 2005. The method used consisted firstly of a quantitative approach using a questionnaire administered to 300 individuals who directly or indirectly participates in children nutritional status management including a self-administered questionnaire to 10 health workers and a non-participatory observation qualitative approach Of care in health centers. We observed that only 1% of respondents had good knowledge of moderate acute malnutrition. We however found that 20% of respondents exhibited a good knowledge of the direct causes of malnutrition and its consequences. We also observed a good that 35% of the respondents were aware of the most affected age group. In addition, the study showed knowledge of a good nutrition practice in 74.4% and a good knowledge of the means of preventing malnutrition in 67.7%. More than 95% of the respondents were aware of the place of call for care in case of malnutrition, the means of detection and the importance of the vaccination.

Indeed, the knowledge of the parameters of the management of the malnourished children was adequate and complies with the guidelines of the National Protocol in 70% of the health agents surveyed. Nevertheless, knowledge about malnutrition in children needs to be improved and the capacity of health workers to be strengthened on this scourge for better care for malnourished children.