The impact of Knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of dietary diversity on maternal and child malnutrition among pregnant and lactating women in Ngozi province, Burundi

Abstract

This study explored nutritional awareness, perceptions and feeding behaviors among pregnant and lactating women in Ngozi province, Burundi, and identified determinants influencing these outcomes. A community-based cross-sectional survey of 1,620 women was conducted using a structured questionnaire adapted from FAO guidelines. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and logistic regression to determine associations between KAP and socio-demographics. Results showed that less than half of participants had good knowledge on infant feeding (44.6%), with even lower knowledge for young child feeding (30.2%) and malnutrition (28.5%). Positive attitudes toward dietary diversity were noted in 63.7% of respondents, but only 57% practiced adequate dietary diversity. Significant predictors of better knowledge and attitudes included economic engagement, education levels, marital status, and age. The study highlights the need for integrated interventions addressing education, economic empowerment, and food access to improve dietary diversity and reduce maternal and child malnutrition in this setting.