Influence of Maternal Feeding Practices and Associated Factors on the Nutritional Status of Children Aged 6 to 59 Months in Koza (Far North, Cameroon)

Abstract

Malnutrition remains a major public health concern in Cameroon. The objective of this study was to assess the influence of maternal feeding practices and related factors on the nutritional status of children aged 6 to 59 months in Koza, Far North Cameroon, a region that has been affected for several years by the Boko Haram conflict. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 200 children aged 6 to 59 months and their mothers. Participants were randomly recruited after verification of their place of residence. Children’s anthropometric measurements were taken, and height-for-age and weight-for-age indices were calculated based on WHO growth standards. Children’s feeding practices, as well as mothers’ dietary habits and sociodemographic characteristics, were assessed using a structured questionnaire. Mothers’ body mass index was also calculated according to WHO criteria. The chi-square test was used to examine associations between the different variables. Among the 200 children included in the study, 39% were underweight (21% in the severe form) and 47.5% were stunted (19% in the severe form). A significant association was found between age group and underweight (P= 0.03), as well as stunting (P= 0.04). The type of breastfeeding was also significantly associated with the occurrence of underweight (P= 0.02) and stunting (P= 0.03) among the children. The age at which complementary foods were introduced was significantly associated with underweight (P= 0.03). Maternal characteristics including age group (P= 0.005), nutritional status (P< 0.001), marital status (P= 0.02), and employment status (P< 0.001) were significantly associated with child underweight. An association was also observed between stunting and maternal age (P= 0.03). The prevalence of chronic malnutrition among children in Koza was higher than the national average of 33% and the 40.2% reported in the North Region of Cameroon. Strengthening nutrition education and promoting appropriate complementary food formulations could help reduce this burden.