International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Invention (IJHSSI) is an international journal intended for professionals and researchers in all fields of Humanities and Social Science. IJHSSI publishes research articles and reviews within the whole field Humanities and Social Science, new teaching methods, assessment, validation and the impact of new technologies and it will continue to provide information on the latest trends and developments in this ever-expanding subject. The publications of papers are selected through double peer reviewed to ensure originality, relevance, and readability. The articles published in our journal can be accessed online
On the Margins of Health Care Provision: Delivering at Home in Harare, Zimbabwepaperpublications3
Abstract: This paper analyses the phenomenon of home deliveries by pregnant women in an urban setting in Zimbabwe. It argues that, though home deliveries are commonly practiced in the rural areas, they have now found their way into and are even proliferating in the urban areas. Social cultural values, religious belief and economic status/resources determine women’s place of birth. Whilst government policies expounded through the Ministry of Health (MoH) programs and policies denounce home deliveries, the frail health care system characterized by mass exodus of qualified personnel, in availability of drugs and understaffing of healthcare centres do little to lure pregnant women to deliver in hospitals. Furthermore, the high levels of poverty among the populace entail that people cannot afford either public or private hospital services; and thus resort to home-based healthcare and subsequently home deliveries. The paper explores the factors fuelling home deliveries and the challenges associated with this practice in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Educational and Occupational Maternal Attitude towards Prevention of Malaria ...iosrjce
IOSR Journal of Humanities and Social Science is a double blind peer reviewed International Journal edited by International Organization of Scientific Research (IOSR).The Journal provides a common forum where all aspects of humanities and social sciences are presented. IOSR-JHSS publishes original papers, review papers, conceptual framework, analytical and simulation models, case studies, empirical research, technical notes etc.
Analysis Of Gender And Healthcare Services Utilization In Rural Ghanafrank acheampong
This study examines gender differences in healthcare utilization in rural Ghana. The researchers conducted a survey of 286 households in 4 rural communities. They found that 74% of females and 63.3% of males had utilized healthcare in the past 4 illnesses. Factors like age, education, household size, staff attitude, and insurance status influenced utilization. However, these factors had differing impacts between males and females. For males, age, education, and service quality were more influential, while for females, household size, staff attitude, and insurance status were more important. The study recommends improving access to healthcare facilities, education, health insurance, and regulating healthcare providers to promote gender equity in rural healthcare utilization in Ghana.
Barriers to meeting the primary health care information needsAlexander Decker
This study investigated the barriers to meeting the primary health care information needs of rural women in Enugu state, Nigeria. A questionnaire was administered to 107 doctors and nurses, and focus group discussions were held with 108 rural women across 9 local government areas. The study found that government insensitivity to rural needs, women's ignorance about primary health care services, and illiteracy posed significant barriers. It was recommended that more health institutions and personnel be provided in rural areas, and that rural women be educated on the importance of primary health care and available services through mobile health libraries and information materials.
Determinants of children's nutritional status among primaryAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a study that assessed the nutritional status of primary school children from farming households in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria. Anthropometric data was collected from 175 children aged 5-11 through surveys of their parents. The data showed high rates of malnutrition among the children based on weight-for-age, weight-for-height, and height-for-age. Regression analysis found that factors like the mother's education, child's sex, household size and income, and living conditions were significantly associated with the child's nutritional status. The study concluded that many children suffered from issues like obesity, stunting and wasting, and recommendations were made to address the high levels of malnutrition among this group.
Adolescents and utilization of family planning services in rural community of...Alexander Decker
This study examined family planning services utilization among adolescents in a rural Nigerian community. 400 adolescents ages 10-19 completed questionnaires. Over two-thirds reported family planning services being available, with main sources being health centers, chemists, and pharmacies. Reasons for service selection included low cost, privacy, and proximity. While most adolescents were sexually active and knowledgeable about contraception, condom use was low and many were unconcerned about pregnancy or STDs. The study concluded family planning services were available but underutilized, with worrisome attitudes towards unprotected sex among adolescents in the community.
International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Invention (IJHSSI) is an international journal intended for professionals and researchers in all fields of Humanities and Social Science. IJHSSI publishes research articles and reviews within the whole field Humanities and Social Science, new teaching methods, assessment, validation and the impact of new technologies and it will continue to provide information on the latest trends and developments in this ever-expanding subject. The publications of papers are selected through double peer reviewed to ensure originality, relevance, and readability. The articles published in our journal can be accessed online.
Role of socio cultural factors influence towards food choices among household...oircjournals
This study focused on factors influencing households’ behavior and attitudes towards food choices in Kiambaa sub-county, Kiambu County. Therefore, this study explored socio-cultural factors on household food choices. Structural functionalism and social learning theory provided the theoretical understanding to discuss the relationship between variables. This study employed descriptive design to randomly select a sample of 138 households. Data was collected using interview schedule on a sample of 138 respondents living in Kiambaa sub-county. Data was analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively, quantitative data using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Ms-excel computer software to generate frequencies and percentages which were presented discussed and interpreted in line with the study objectives. The findings established statistically significant between social cultural factors and food choices in Kiambaa Sub County. Social interactions at 86% which include the nature of interpersonal relationships, social status at 70% and traditions at 78% in households provided an important set of interpersonal relationships in influencing food choice. This study findings shows majority of women at 86% are actively involved in decision making especially on the food to be eaten at home therefore become the burden carrier of the household activity and balancing other roles as homemaker, mother and income earners. This study concludes that factors influencing food choices are positive and negative therefore it is importance to consider sociological approach to food choices. This study recommends policy and strategic approach to food choices, household target in proper utilization of research findings and further study on assessment of influence of work on behaviour towards food choices.
On the Margins of Health Care Provision: Delivering at Home in Harare, Zimbabwepaperpublications3
Abstract: This paper analyses the phenomenon of home deliveries by pregnant women in an urban setting in Zimbabwe. It argues that, though home deliveries are commonly practiced in the rural areas, they have now found their way into and are even proliferating in the urban areas. Social cultural values, religious belief and economic status/resources determine women’s place of birth. Whilst government policies expounded through the Ministry of Health (MoH) programs and policies denounce home deliveries, the frail health care system characterized by mass exodus of qualified personnel, in availability of drugs and understaffing of healthcare centres do little to lure pregnant women to deliver in hospitals. Furthermore, the high levels of poverty among the populace entail that people cannot afford either public or private hospital services; and thus resort to home-based healthcare and subsequently home deliveries. The paper explores the factors fuelling home deliveries and the challenges associated with this practice in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Educational and Occupational Maternal Attitude towards Prevention of Malaria ...iosrjce
IOSR Journal of Humanities and Social Science is a double blind peer reviewed International Journal edited by International Organization of Scientific Research (IOSR).The Journal provides a common forum where all aspects of humanities and social sciences are presented. IOSR-JHSS publishes original papers, review papers, conceptual framework, analytical and simulation models, case studies, empirical research, technical notes etc.
Analysis Of Gender And Healthcare Services Utilization In Rural Ghanafrank acheampong
This study examines gender differences in healthcare utilization in rural Ghana. The researchers conducted a survey of 286 households in 4 rural communities. They found that 74% of females and 63.3% of males had utilized healthcare in the past 4 illnesses. Factors like age, education, household size, staff attitude, and insurance status influenced utilization. However, these factors had differing impacts between males and females. For males, age, education, and service quality were more influential, while for females, household size, staff attitude, and insurance status were more important. The study recommends improving access to healthcare facilities, education, health insurance, and regulating healthcare providers to promote gender equity in rural healthcare utilization in Ghana.
Barriers to meeting the primary health care information needsAlexander Decker
This study investigated the barriers to meeting the primary health care information needs of rural women in Enugu state, Nigeria. A questionnaire was administered to 107 doctors and nurses, and focus group discussions were held with 108 rural women across 9 local government areas. The study found that government insensitivity to rural needs, women's ignorance about primary health care services, and illiteracy posed significant barriers. It was recommended that more health institutions and personnel be provided in rural areas, and that rural women be educated on the importance of primary health care and available services through mobile health libraries and information materials.
Determinants of children's nutritional status among primaryAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a study that assessed the nutritional status of primary school children from farming households in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria. Anthropometric data was collected from 175 children aged 5-11 through surveys of their parents. The data showed high rates of malnutrition among the children based on weight-for-age, weight-for-height, and height-for-age. Regression analysis found that factors like the mother's education, child's sex, household size and income, and living conditions were significantly associated with the child's nutritional status. The study concluded that many children suffered from issues like obesity, stunting and wasting, and recommendations were made to address the high levels of malnutrition among this group.
Adolescents and utilization of family planning services in rural community of...Alexander Decker
This study examined family planning services utilization among adolescents in a rural Nigerian community. 400 adolescents ages 10-19 completed questionnaires. Over two-thirds reported family planning services being available, with main sources being health centers, chemists, and pharmacies. Reasons for service selection included low cost, privacy, and proximity. While most adolescents were sexually active and knowledgeable about contraception, condom use was low and many were unconcerned about pregnancy or STDs. The study concluded family planning services were available but underutilized, with worrisome attitudes towards unprotected sex among adolescents in the community.
International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Invention (IJHSSI) is an international journal intended for professionals and researchers in all fields of Humanities and Social Science. IJHSSI publishes research articles and reviews within the whole field Humanities and Social Science, new teaching methods, assessment, validation and the impact of new technologies and it will continue to provide information on the latest trends and developments in this ever-expanding subject. The publications of papers are selected through double peer reviewed to ensure originality, relevance, and readability. The articles published in our journal can be accessed online.
Role of socio cultural factors influence towards food choices among household...oircjournals
This study focused on factors influencing households’ behavior and attitudes towards food choices in Kiambaa sub-county, Kiambu County. Therefore, this study explored socio-cultural factors on household food choices. Structural functionalism and social learning theory provided the theoretical understanding to discuss the relationship between variables. This study employed descriptive design to randomly select a sample of 138 households. Data was collected using interview schedule on a sample of 138 respondents living in Kiambaa sub-county. Data was analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively, quantitative data using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Ms-excel computer software to generate frequencies and percentages which were presented discussed and interpreted in line with the study objectives. The findings established statistically significant between social cultural factors and food choices in Kiambaa Sub County. Social interactions at 86% which include the nature of interpersonal relationships, social status at 70% and traditions at 78% in households provided an important set of interpersonal relationships in influencing food choice. This study findings shows majority of women at 86% are actively involved in decision making especially on the food to be eaten at home therefore become the burden carrier of the household activity and balancing other roles as homemaker, mother and income earners. This study concludes that factors influencing food choices are positive and negative therefore it is importance to consider sociological approach to food choices. This study recommends policy and strategic approach to food choices, household target in proper utilization of research findings and further study on assessment of influence of work on behaviour towards food choices.
Assessment of nutritional status of household members in a rural nigerian pop...Alexander Decker
This study assessed the nutritional status of household members in 50 rural Nigerian households comprising 202 individuals. Data was collected through questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. Results showed 56% of households obtained food through market purchases and homegrown sources, while 22% relied solely on market purchases. Food was mostly distributed individually (42%) or collectively (32%). Fathers received the largest share of food (36%), followed by mothers (30%). Nutritional status revealed high rates of underweight children (67.2%) but normal weight parents (55.4%). Male-headed households had better nutritional status. The study concluded improper food allocation led to high rates of malnutrition among this population.
Influence of Mothers’ Participation in Intra-Household Decision Making on Nut...Hudu Zakaria
The purpose of this paper is to investigate effects of mothers’ participation in intra-household decision making on the nutritional status of their children. The paper relied solely on analysis of data for Northern Region of Ghana, collected as part of United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Feed the Future population baseline survey conducted in 2012. Multiple Linear Regression Model was used in examining mothers’ participation in intra-household decision making on children’s weight-for-age, height-for-age and weight-for-height which were used as proxies for children’s nutritional status. Results of the analysis revealed that, the Region is still far from achieving the MDG 1 target of attaining 1.8% malnutrition prevalence rate, as stunting, underweight and wasting prevalence rates among children in the region were found to be 27%, 25% and 13% respectively. The analysis also found mothers’ participation in intra-household decision making, ownership and control of household resources as significant in influencing positively children’s nutritional status. Increasing participation and power of women in intra-household decision making process are imperative in improving children nutritional status and reducing malnutrition prevalence among children under five years. It is therefore recommended that programmes and projects aimed at promoting sustainable nutritional wellbeing among children should consider empowering mothers of children so as to promote their status and barging power in intra-household decision making process.
Effect of family structure on nutritional status of pre school children (2 – ...Alexander Decker
This study evaluated the effect of family structure on the nutritional status of 300 pre-school children in rural Nigeria. The majority of children had married parents from monogamous families with 4-5 family members. Anthropometric measurements found most children had normal weight and height, though 25% were stunted and 35% were obese. Regression analysis indicated that a child's position as the first or second born and living in a polygamous family significantly influenced their weight-for-age. A child's position also influenced their height-for-age and weight. The age of parents and single parent families significantly influenced children's BMI.
Analysis of the significance of fishing on food security status ofAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a study analyzing the significance of fishing on food security status of rural
households around Lake Ziway and Lake Langano in Ethiopia. 344 rural households were surveyed, with 179
being fishing households and 165 being non-fishing households. Food security was measured using a food
security index calculating daily per capita calorie availability and requirements. Propensity score matching
methods were used to estimate the average treatment effect of fishing on food energy intake, accounting for
observable and unobservable factors. Results found that fishing households had significantly higher food energy
intake compared to non-fishing households, indicating the positive impact of fishing on household food security.
The study suggests promoting income diversification and
Prevalence of malnutrition_and_associated_factors_AmanualNuredin
This study assessed the prevalence of malnutrition and associated factors among children aged 6-59 months in Hidabu Abote district, North Shewa, Oromia, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 8-23, 2012 using a multistage sampling method to select 820 children. The analysis revealed that 47.6% of children were stunted, 30.9% were underweight, and 16.7% were wasted. Main factors associated with stunting included child age, family monthly income, receiving butter as a pre-lacteal feeding, and family planning practices. Underweight was associated with number of children in the household and receiving butter as a pre-lacteal feeding
Factors Associated with Growth in the First 1,000 Days CHECKLEYCORE Group
CORE Group GHPC15
October 8, 2015
Concurrent Session: Factors Associated with Growth in the First 1,000 Days: Translating Evidence into Programs for Stunting, Wasting, and the Double Burden of Malnutrition
1. The document discusses women's health and well-being, with a focus on how it is defined and perceptions of it in different cultures and income levels.
2. It finds that for poorer women in developing countries, well-being often means having basic needs met and gaining empowerment through education and independence.
3. For women in wealthier countries, well-being debates commonly center around balancing work and family responsibilities, though subjective feelings can differ from objective measures of health and income.
4. The document examines perspectives from women, public health officials, and experts on factors influencing well-being and how women access health information.
This study examined malnutrition among school-aged children in rural and urban areas of two districts in Ethiopia. The researchers collected anthropometric and dietary intake data from 886 children and analyzed differences in stunting and thinness between settings. The prevalence of stunting was higher in rural (42.7%) versus urban (29.2%) areas. In rural areas, factors associated with stunting included recent fever, consumption of animal foods, and family cattle ownership. In urban areas, only older age and the head of household's education were associated with stunting. Thinness was linked to household size and rice farming in rural communities and animal food intake and head of household literacy in urban communities. The study found varying factors impacting malnutrition
This study assessed the nutritional status of school-age children in urban slums in India. The researchers found high rates of malnutrition, with over 30% of children wasted and nearly 20% stunted. Younger children, those from joint families, and those whose mothers had low education levels were most at risk. Interventions like nutrition education and food fortification were recommended to address the poor nutritional status found.
This document reviews literature on the nutritional awareness, dietary habits, and health status of college girls in India. It discusses the status of women in India, gender discrimination in health and nutrition, and how this affects nutritional status. Gender discrimination begins before birth and negatively impacts women throughout their lives. Factors like social status, education levels, employment opportunities, and legal protections influence women's health and access to healthcare. Discrimination leads to issues like low birth weight, malnutrition in girls, and an overall negative intergenerational impact on families and communities.
A retrospective study on the mortality rate of human immunodeficiency virus (...Alexander Decker
This retrospective study analyzed data from 3,470 HIV-positive individuals in Nasarawa State, Nigeria between 2007-2011 to investigate mortality rates from tuberculosis (TB) co-infection. The study found that 24.2% of individuals had HIV/TB co-infection, with the highest prevalence in 20-29 year olds and females. Females consistently had higher mortality rates than males from HIV/TB co-infection. While access to anti-tuberculosis treatment increased from 2009-2011, access to antiretroviral treatment declined over the study period. The results suggest that women are disproportionately impacted by HIV/TB co-infection due to socioeconomic factors and that increased intervention programs are needed.
Helping professional’s perception of the welfareAlexander Decker
This document discusses a study that surveyed helping professionals in South Africa on the welfare needs of AIDS orphans. 52 social workers, counselors, and psychologists responded to a questionnaire identifying the key welfare needs as: 1) Adequate feeding, 2) Education on preventing AIDS, 3) Access to quality education, 4) Basic personal requirements, 5) Counseling to cope with their situation, and 6) Career/job opportunities. The findings indicate strong agreement that AIDS orphans need proper healthcare, nutrition, education, counseling, and prevention education to address their trauma and meet their long-term needs.
Kissito Healthcare Presient and CEO, Tom Clarke, met with OB-GYN professionsals from Carillion Hospital on September 30th to discuss Kissito's international child and maternal healthcare operations in Uganda and Ethiopia.
Fertility behaviour and women's empowerment in oyo stateAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a journal article that examines the relationship between women's empowerment and fertility behavior in Ibadan, Nigeria. The study found that 51% of respondents were not using family planning methods, though most had at least a primary school education. It also found that discussing the number of children to have significantly affects women's fertility. The study concludes that increasing education for both men and women, and encouraging family planning use, can help empower women and reduce fertility rates.
Dietary Intake and Nutritional Status of the Elderly in Osun State (2)iosrjce
The study compared the dietary intake and nutritional status of the elderly attending geriatric day
care centres and those who did not in Ile-Ife and Imesi-Ile both in Ife-Ijesasenatorial district of Osun State. It
was aimed at examining the relationships between income, acute diseases and food intake on dietary intake and
nutritional status of the elderly people. A total of four hundred and eighteen elderly respondents were recruited
for the study through a snow balling sampling technique. One hundred and thirty two elderly attending geriatric
day care centres were recruited as study group and 318 who do not attend any of the centres were recruited as
control group. Data was collected by using a twenty-item questionnaire adapted from Nestle Mini Nutritional
Assessment (MNA) scale.
Findings revealed that more (9.1%) of the respondents in the study group were undernourished, and 25.9% of
the respondents in the same group were overweight. There was no significant difference in the nutritional status
of respondents from both groups (X2=2.25, p= >0.05). This study concluded that attendance of geriatric day
care centres and income conferred no added benefit on the nutritional status and dietary pattern of the elderly.
Nicaragua identifying factors that affect childrens healthImelda Medina, MD
Children's growth up to age five is influenced more by nutrition, environment and health care than by genetics or ethnicity. The document states that factors like nutrition, environment and health care have a greater influence on children's development in the first five years than genetic or ethnic factors.
Child Mortality among Teenage Mothers in OJU Metropolisiosrjce
This study was designed to identify child mortality among teenage mothers in Oju metropolisin
Benue State, Nigeria, specifically, the study determined (i) the cause of child mortality among teenage mothers,
and (ii) rate of child mortality among teenage mothersand (iii) possible ways of reducing child mortality rate,
and it answered three research questions to guide the study. The population of the study comprised of all
medical personnel in Oju metropolis. The sample was purposively selected from medical personnel in the area
of study (Oju metropolis). The instrument of the study was a four-point scale questioner which was dully
validated prior to utilization. Mean was used for data analysis, the findings include seven causes of child
mortality, seven rates of child mortality and eleven possible ways of reducing child mortality rate, based on the
findings, six recommendations were made, which include among others, parent should be made to be aware of
the crisis associatedwith early motherhood through public enlighten programmessuch as counseling agents,
workshops, seminars and radio jingles.
Barriers to meeting the primary health care information needsAlexander Decker
This study investigated the barriers to meeting the primary health care information needs of rural women in Enugu state, Nigeria. A questionnaire was administered to 107 doctors and nurses, and focus group discussions were held with 108 rural women across 9 local government areas. The study found that government insensitivity to rural needs, women's ignorance about primary health care services, and illiteracy were major barriers. It was recommended that more health institutions and personnel be provided in rural areas, and that rural women be educated on the importance of primary health care and available services through mobile health libraries and information materials.
[[INOSR ES 11(2)134-147 Evaluation of the Infant Mortality rate at Ishaka Adv...PUBLISHERJOURNAL
Evaluation of the Infant Mortality rate at Ishaka Adventist Hospital Bushenyi District
Mugaaga Paul
Department of Clinical Medicine Kampala International University, Uganda.
________________________________________ABSTRACT
Infant mortality is defined as the death of an infant before his or her first birthday, mainly caused by dehydration, diseases, congenital malformations and infections. The main objective of this study was to establish the determinants of infant mortality in Ishaka Adventist Hospital (IAH) in the months of April- July 2017, in Ishaka municipality in Bushenyi district. A descriptive cross sectional study design was used to determine the determinants of infant mortality in the study area. Majority of respondent (98%) were female and among them, 25.5% reported to have lost at least an infant and most of these respondents (70%) were married while 5% were widowed and among these, 40% reported to have lost an infant. Religiously, majority of the respondents (80%) were Christians, while 13% were Muslim and 7% constituted other religions including paganism, which showed the greatest infant mortality rate (71.4%). Most of the respondents (65%) attained primary level of education while 5% did not go to school at all, and the highest infant mortality rate (40%) was reported among these. The respondents who reported to have had preterm births appeared to have a higher infant mortality rate (65%) than those who did not report preterm births. A higher infant mortality rate (32.2%) was realized among respondents who reported their infants to have had such co-morbidities than those who didn’t report any co-morbidities like malaria and also a higher infant mortality rate (50%) was realized among infants who had not exclusively breastfed. Majority of respondents (80%) did not have children with birth defects while only 20% had children with birth defect, and a higher infant mortality rate of 70% was realized among these. Demographically, infant mortality rate is high among teenagers, the unemployed, the widowed, the pagans, and the uneducated. Direct determinants of infant mortality rate included preterm birth, birth defects, comorbidities and failure to breastfeed exclusively. Proximate determinants associated with infant mortality rate included teenage pregnancies, source of water, means of delivery and irregular immunization. Exclusive breast feeding for 6 months, mass immunization campaign up to grass root, intensive health education on health seeking behaviors and highlighting on dangers associated with risky behaviors and high quality monitoring and evaluation for quick action particularly for emergencies. There is also need for intersectional collaboration and initiation of income generating activities to boost their standards of living.
Keywords: Infant mortality, Breastfeeding, Morbidity, Determinants, Respondents.
Assessment of nutritional status of household members in a rural nigerian pop...Alexander Decker
This study assessed the nutritional status of household members in 50 rural Nigerian households comprising 202 individuals. Data was collected through questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. Results showed 56% of households obtained food through market purchases and homegrown sources, while 22% relied solely on market purchases. Food was mostly distributed individually (42%) or collectively (32%). Fathers received the largest share of food (36%), followed by mothers (30%). Nutritional status revealed high rates of underweight children (67.2%) but normal weight parents (55.4%). Male-headed households had better nutritional status. The study concluded improper food allocation led to high rates of malnutrition among this population.
Influence of Mothers’ Participation in Intra-Household Decision Making on Nut...Hudu Zakaria
The purpose of this paper is to investigate effects of mothers’ participation in intra-household decision making on the nutritional status of their children. The paper relied solely on analysis of data for Northern Region of Ghana, collected as part of United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Feed the Future population baseline survey conducted in 2012. Multiple Linear Regression Model was used in examining mothers’ participation in intra-household decision making on children’s weight-for-age, height-for-age and weight-for-height which were used as proxies for children’s nutritional status. Results of the analysis revealed that, the Region is still far from achieving the MDG 1 target of attaining 1.8% malnutrition prevalence rate, as stunting, underweight and wasting prevalence rates among children in the region were found to be 27%, 25% and 13% respectively. The analysis also found mothers’ participation in intra-household decision making, ownership and control of household resources as significant in influencing positively children’s nutritional status. Increasing participation and power of women in intra-household decision making process are imperative in improving children nutritional status and reducing malnutrition prevalence among children under five years. It is therefore recommended that programmes and projects aimed at promoting sustainable nutritional wellbeing among children should consider empowering mothers of children so as to promote their status and barging power in intra-household decision making process.
Effect of family structure on nutritional status of pre school children (2 – ...Alexander Decker
This study evaluated the effect of family structure on the nutritional status of 300 pre-school children in rural Nigeria. The majority of children had married parents from monogamous families with 4-5 family members. Anthropometric measurements found most children had normal weight and height, though 25% were stunted and 35% were obese. Regression analysis indicated that a child's position as the first or second born and living in a polygamous family significantly influenced their weight-for-age. A child's position also influenced their height-for-age and weight. The age of parents and single parent families significantly influenced children's BMI.
Analysis of the significance of fishing on food security status ofAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a study analyzing the significance of fishing on food security status of rural
households around Lake Ziway and Lake Langano in Ethiopia. 344 rural households were surveyed, with 179
being fishing households and 165 being non-fishing households. Food security was measured using a food
security index calculating daily per capita calorie availability and requirements. Propensity score matching
methods were used to estimate the average treatment effect of fishing on food energy intake, accounting for
observable and unobservable factors. Results found that fishing households had significantly higher food energy
intake compared to non-fishing households, indicating the positive impact of fishing on household food security.
The study suggests promoting income diversification and
Prevalence of malnutrition_and_associated_factors_AmanualNuredin
This study assessed the prevalence of malnutrition and associated factors among children aged 6-59 months in Hidabu Abote district, North Shewa, Oromia, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 8-23, 2012 using a multistage sampling method to select 820 children. The analysis revealed that 47.6% of children were stunted, 30.9% were underweight, and 16.7% were wasted. Main factors associated with stunting included child age, family monthly income, receiving butter as a pre-lacteal feeding, and family planning practices. Underweight was associated with number of children in the household and receiving butter as a pre-lacteal feeding
Factors Associated with Growth in the First 1,000 Days CHECKLEYCORE Group
CORE Group GHPC15
October 8, 2015
Concurrent Session: Factors Associated with Growth in the First 1,000 Days: Translating Evidence into Programs for Stunting, Wasting, and the Double Burden of Malnutrition
1. The document discusses women's health and well-being, with a focus on how it is defined and perceptions of it in different cultures and income levels.
2. It finds that for poorer women in developing countries, well-being often means having basic needs met and gaining empowerment through education and independence.
3. For women in wealthier countries, well-being debates commonly center around balancing work and family responsibilities, though subjective feelings can differ from objective measures of health and income.
4. The document examines perspectives from women, public health officials, and experts on factors influencing well-being and how women access health information.
This study examined malnutrition among school-aged children in rural and urban areas of two districts in Ethiopia. The researchers collected anthropometric and dietary intake data from 886 children and analyzed differences in stunting and thinness between settings. The prevalence of stunting was higher in rural (42.7%) versus urban (29.2%) areas. In rural areas, factors associated with stunting included recent fever, consumption of animal foods, and family cattle ownership. In urban areas, only older age and the head of household's education were associated with stunting. Thinness was linked to household size and rice farming in rural communities and animal food intake and head of household literacy in urban communities. The study found varying factors impacting malnutrition
This study assessed the nutritional status of school-age children in urban slums in India. The researchers found high rates of malnutrition, with over 30% of children wasted and nearly 20% stunted. Younger children, those from joint families, and those whose mothers had low education levels were most at risk. Interventions like nutrition education and food fortification were recommended to address the poor nutritional status found.
This document reviews literature on the nutritional awareness, dietary habits, and health status of college girls in India. It discusses the status of women in India, gender discrimination in health and nutrition, and how this affects nutritional status. Gender discrimination begins before birth and negatively impacts women throughout their lives. Factors like social status, education levels, employment opportunities, and legal protections influence women's health and access to healthcare. Discrimination leads to issues like low birth weight, malnutrition in girls, and an overall negative intergenerational impact on families and communities.
A retrospective study on the mortality rate of human immunodeficiency virus (...Alexander Decker
This retrospective study analyzed data from 3,470 HIV-positive individuals in Nasarawa State, Nigeria between 2007-2011 to investigate mortality rates from tuberculosis (TB) co-infection. The study found that 24.2% of individuals had HIV/TB co-infection, with the highest prevalence in 20-29 year olds and females. Females consistently had higher mortality rates than males from HIV/TB co-infection. While access to anti-tuberculosis treatment increased from 2009-2011, access to antiretroviral treatment declined over the study period. The results suggest that women are disproportionately impacted by HIV/TB co-infection due to socioeconomic factors and that increased intervention programs are needed.
Helping professional’s perception of the welfareAlexander Decker
This document discusses a study that surveyed helping professionals in South Africa on the welfare needs of AIDS orphans. 52 social workers, counselors, and psychologists responded to a questionnaire identifying the key welfare needs as: 1) Adequate feeding, 2) Education on preventing AIDS, 3) Access to quality education, 4) Basic personal requirements, 5) Counseling to cope with their situation, and 6) Career/job opportunities. The findings indicate strong agreement that AIDS orphans need proper healthcare, nutrition, education, counseling, and prevention education to address their trauma and meet their long-term needs.
Kissito Healthcare Presient and CEO, Tom Clarke, met with OB-GYN professionsals from Carillion Hospital on September 30th to discuss Kissito's international child and maternal healthcare operations in Uganda and Ethiopia.
Fertility behaviour and women's empowerment in oyo stateAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a journal article that examines the relationship between women's empowerment and fertility behavior in Ibadan, Nigeria. The study found that 51% of respondents were not using family planning methods, though most had at least a primary school education. It also found that discussing the number of children to have significantly affects women's fertility. The study concludes that increasing education for both men and women, and encouraging family planning use, can help empower women and reduce fertility rates.
Dietary Intake and Nutritional Status of the Elderly in Osun State (2)iosrjce
The study compared the dietary intake and nutritional status of the elderly attending geriatric day
care centres and those who did not in Ile-Ife and Imesi-Ile both in Ife-Ijesasenatorial district of Osun State. It
was aimed at examining the relationships between income, acute diseases and food intake on dietary intake and
nutritional status of the elderly people. A total of four hundred and eighteen elderly respondents were recruited
for the study through a snow balling sampling technique. One hundred and thirty two elderly attending geriatric
day care centres were recruited as study group and 318 who do not attend any of the centres were recruited as
control group. Data was collected by using a twenty-item questionnaire adapted from Nestle Mini Nutritional
Assessment (MNA) scale.
Findings revealed that more (9.1%) of the respondents in the study group were undernourished, and 25.9% of
the respondents in the same group were overweight. There was no significant difference in the nutritional status
of respondents from both groups (X2=2.25, p= >0.05). This study concluded that attendance of geriatric day
care centres and income conferred no added benefit on the nutritional status and dietary pattern of the elderly.
Nicaragua identifying factors that affect childrens healthImelda Medina, MD
Children's growth up to age five is influenced more by nutrition, environment and health care than by genetics or ethnicity. The document states that factors like nutrition, environment and health care have a greater influence on children's development in the first five years than genetic or ethnic factors.
Child Mortality among Teenage Mothers in OJU Metropolisiosrjce
This study was designed to identify child mortality among teenage mothers in Oju metropolisin
Benue State, Nigeria, specifically, the study determined (i) the cause of child mortality among teenage mothers,
and (ii) rate of child mortality among teenage mothersand (iii) possible ways of reducing child mortality rate,
and it answered three research questions to guide the study. The population of the study comprised of all
medical personnel in Oju metropolis. The sample was purposively selected from medical personnel in the area
of study (Oju metropolis). The instrument of the study was a four-point scale questioner which was dully
validated prior to utilization. Mean was used for data analysis, the findings include seven causes of child
mortality, seven rates of child mortality and eleven possible ways of reducing child mortality rate, based on the
findings, six recommendations were made, which include among others, parent should be made to be aware of
the crisis associatedwith early motherhood through public enlighten programmessuch as counseling agents,
workshops, seminars and radio jingles.
Barriers to meeting the primary health care information needsAlexander Decker
This study investigated the barriers to meeting the primary health care information needs of rural women in Enugu state, Nigeria. A questionnaire was administered to 107 doctors and nurses, and focus group discussions were held with 108 rural women across 9 local government areas. The study found that government insensitivity to rural needs, women's ignorance about primary health care services, and illiteracy were major barriers. It was recommended that more health institutions and personnel be provided in rural areas, and that rural women be educated on the importance of primary health care and available services through mobile health libraries and information materials.
[[INOSR ES 11(2)134-147 Evaluation of the Infant Mortality rate at Ishaka Adv...PUBLISHERJOURNAL
Evaluation of the Infant Mortality rate at Ishaka Adventist Hospital Bushenyi District
Mugaaga Paul
Department of Clinical Medicine Kampala International University, Uganda.
________________________________________ABSTRACT
Infant mortality is defined as the death of an infant before his or her first birthday, mainly caused by dehydration, diseases, congenital malformations and infections. The main objective of this study was to establish the determinants of infant mortality in Ishaka Adventist Hospital (IAH) in the months of April- July 2017, in Ishaka municipality in Bushenyi district. A descriptive cross sectional study design was used to determine the determinants of infant mortality in the study area. Majority of respondent (98%) were female and among them, 25.5% reported to have lost at least an infant and most of these respondents (70%) were married while 5% were widowed and among these, 40% reported to have lost an infant. Religiously, majority of the respondents (80%) were Christians, while 13% were Muslim and 7% constituted other religions including paganism, which showed the greatest infant mortality rate (71.4%). Most of the respondents (65%) attained primary level of education while 5% did not go to school at all, and the highest infant mortality rate (40%) was reported among these. The respondents who reported to have had preterm births appeared to have a higher infant mortality rate (65%) than those who did not report preterm births. A higher infant mortality rate (32.2%) was realized among respondents who reported their infants to have had such co-morbidities than those who didn’t report any co-morbidities like malaria and also a higher infant mortality rate (50%) was realized among infants who had not exclusively breastfed. Majority of respondents (80%) did not have children with birth defects while only 20% had children with birth defect, and a higher infant mortality rate of 70% was realized among these. Demographically, infant mortality rate is high among teenagers, the unemployed, the widowed, the pagans, and the uneducated. Direct determinants of infant mortality rate included preterm birth, birth defects, comorbidities and failure to breastfeed exclusively. Proximate determinants associated with infant mortality rate included teenage pregnancies, source of water, means of delivery and irregular immunization. Exclusive breast feeding for 6 months, mass immunization campaign up to grass root, intensive health education on health seeking behaviors and highlighting on dangers associated with risky behaviors and high quality monitoring and evaluation for quick action particularly for emergencies. There is also need for intersectional collaboration and initiation of income generating activities to boost their standards of living.
Keywords: Infant mortality, Breastfeeding, Morbidity, Determinants, Respondents.
Caregivers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices influence clinical outcomes for disabled children under five. The study assessed 200 caregivers in Bawku, Ghana. It found that while caregivers were aware their children were sick, many did not view the illness as severe and delayed seeking treatment. Economic and socio-cultural factors like cost of care, education levels, and cultural beliefs influenced treatment-seeking. The study recommends improving healthcare access to ensure prompt treatment of childhood illnesses.
Prevalence and determinant factors of overweight and obesity among preschool ...Alexander Decker
This study assessed the prevalence of overweight and obesity among 358 preschool children aged 3-5 years in Hawassa City, Ethiopia. The prevalence of overweight was 7.3% and obesity was 3.4%, for a combined prevalence of overweight and obesity of 10.7%. Children from higher socioeconomic backgrounds had higher odds of being overweight or obese compared to children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Risk factors for overweight and obesity included early introduction of formula feeding, consumption of a diverse diet including sweets and fast foods, and higher parental wealth. The study highlights the emerging problem of overweight and obesity among preschool children in Ethiopia as lifestyles become more urbanized.
The negative impacts of adolescent sexuality problems among secondary school ...lukeman Joseph Ade shittu
This study was conducted to focus on the negative health outcomes related to sexual behaviour in adolescents and young adults attending public school in the Oworonshoki region of Lagos, Nigeria, Africa. Since, there is a relative dearth of knowledge on adolescents who face unique and challenging economics, health and education problems in our society. Data on the socio-demographic characteristics, prevalence and knowledge towards STD including HIV/AIDS, prevalence of sexual abuse practice/sexual behaviour, family planning awareness and acceptance including abortion practice were sorted out using self structured questionnaires and administered to 60% of student’s population using a stratified random sampling technique. 55.8% lived with both parents. While, 50.3% of the mothers had basic secondary school qualifications, 72.4% of them are traders. 61.5% had sex education were from misinformed friends/peers while 51% had no basic knowledge about sexual behavioral practice and attitude towards STDs/AIDS (HIV). STD has a prevalence of 34 and 41% of boys used condoms for preventing STI/HIV transmission and unwanted pregnancies. One out of every five sexually active teenagers has experienced forced sex, especially among the circumcised girls who were more sexually active than the uncircumcised girls. 60% of girls between ages of 12 and 18 years had more than one unsafe abortion with severe vaginal bleeding (haemorrhage) as the chief complication. However, 65% of the girls did abortion for fear of leaving school and financial hardship as the reasons.
1) Rural women play a key role in ensuring child nutrition as primary caregivers, but face numerous challenges including lack of access to resources, education, and social support.
2) Proper nutrition is critical for children in the first 1000 days of life to support growth and development. Empowering women through education and access to healthcare, nutrition information, and social services can help improve child nutrition outcomes.
3) Cultural beliefs and food taboos also impact child feeding practices in some communities, preventing children from receiving essential nutrients. Overcoming social and economic barriers that limit rural women's ability to care for children is important for combating malnutrition.
Background: Childhood stunting is the most widely prevalent among under-five children in Ethiopia. Despite the
individual-level factors of childhood stunting are well documented, community-level factors have not been given
much attention in the country. This study aimed to identify individual- and community-level factors associated with
stunting among under-five children in Ethiopia.
Methods: Cross-sectional data from the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey was used. A total of 8855
under-five children and 640 community clusters were included in the current analysis. A multilevel logistic
regression model was used at 5% level of significance to determine the individual- and community-level factors
associated with childhood stunting.
Apart from limited attempts to understand the sexual and reproductive health situations of street children in general, little is known about the overall psycho-social and health related circumstances surrounding pregnancy and child bearing practices of homeless women. The present research was at assessing the overall psycho-social circumstances surrounding Incidences of pregnancy and child bearing among homeless women in Shashemene town. A cross-sectional study design was used in which data were collected between December, 2018 and January, 2019. 163 homeless women, selected on the basis of purposive sampling procedure have participated in the study. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected using survey and depth interview methods (methodical triangulation). While quantifi able data were entered in to SPSS version. 20 for further analysis, qualitative data were transcribed, organized, and narratively presented after fi nding themes in the data. Marriage between homeless women and their men counterparts is a common feature of social interaction in the study area. This social context may justify the fact that most (93.7%) women conceived their last babies intentionally. While respondents were relatively. better off in terms of receiving prenatal care (50.3%), the experience of attending postnatal health care services has been moderately low
(40.6%). Above all, street sides and religious compounds (2.8% & 2.8%, respectively) were also among the places where babies were delivered. Attendance of prenatal care was signifi cantly associated to education (-.284, P < 0.01) and postnatal care (.590, P < 0.01) while post-natal health care seeking behavior was signifi cantly associated to the number of children a woman have (.228, P < 0.01), age of respondents (.278, P < 0.01), experiences of attending prenatal care (.590, P < 0.01) and education (-.389, P < 0.01). Patterns of psycho-social relationships prevalent among the homeless women in Shashemene town hold similarity with the pattern existing in the mainstream society. The concerned governmental and non-governmental organizations should work to enhance the
awareness of the homeless women about contraceptive methods, its advantage, and how it is relevant to their living situations.
Determinants of higher fertility rates in igunga district, tanzania does wom...Alexander Decker
This study investigated the relationship between women's empowerment and fertility rates in Igunga District, Tanzania, which has high fertility rates. 120 women were surveyed using questionnaires on their empowerment, measured by indicators like participation in economic and family size decisions, mobility, and coercive control, and their fertility, measured by age-specific fertility rates and total fertility rates. Results showed women in the area had low levels of empowerment on these indicators. Regression analysis found lower levels of empowerment, along with demographic and cultural factors like men's dominance, were responsible for the higher fertility rates in the area. The study recommends interventions to address cultural factors and increase women's empowerment to potentially lower fertility rates.
This study examined the nutritional status of adolescent girls in urban and rural areas of Ethiopia. It found:
1) Stunting was significantly more prevalent in rural girls (40.9%) compared to urban girls (17.8%).
2) While underweight and overweight rates were similar between urban and rural girls, urban girls had significantly higher mean height-for-age and BMI-for-age scores.
3) Malnutrition affected both urban and rural girls, but stunting was a particular problem for those living in rural areas, indicating a need to address nutritional issues facing adolescent girls in different settings.
Factors influencing the practice of exclusive breast feeding in rural communi...Alexander Decker
This study aimed to identify factors influencing the practice of exclusive breastfeeding in rural communities in Osun State, Nigeria. The study surveyed 480 nursing mothers across 5 communities. It found that only 20% of respondents practiced exclusive breastfeeding, while 80% did not. Factors found to significantly influence breastfeeding practices included: the mother's age, marital status, occupation, family income, education, and number of children. Mothers with higher incomes, education, and older/more experienced mothers were more likely to practice exclusive breastfeeding. The study concluded that health workers need to address cultural barriers through education to promote exclusive breastfeeding among rural women.
Assessment of Maternal Health Seeking Behavior and Service Utilization among ...Scientific Review
Health seeking behavior and utilization of maternal healthcare services are proximate factors that influence maternal morbidity and mortality in any society. We therefore assessed the pattern of health seeking behavior and types of maternal healthcare services utilized by women of the reproductive age in parts of Southeastern Nigeria. A cross sectional descriptive method involving the use of a well-structured pretested questionnaire was used to collect data from 521 randomly selected women between the ages of 15-49 years. Informed oral consent was obtained from these women prior to their recruitment for the study. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed on the data obtained using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). The mean age of the respondents was 32 ± 0.07620 years and most(50.5%) attained secondary education. There was a significant relationship between healthcare services and mother's age (p<0.000) with women between 29-35yrs (52.2%) utilizing healthcare services more than those in other age groups. Place of residence (r =0.568, p≤.001) and religion (r = 0.784, p≤0.001) were also significantly associated with health seeking behaviour. About 58% of the respondents understood that good maternal healthcare can reduce maternal mortality and morbidity. Our findings showed good health seeking behaviour and service utilization in the study area despite the identified hindering factors. These underscore the need to empower women of reproductive age as well as to put mechanisms in place that will increase their access to quality maternal health care services.
Assessment of Maternal Health Seeking Behavior and Service Utilization among...Scientific Review SR
Health seeking behavior and utilization of maternal healthcare services are proximate factors that
influence maternal morbidity and mortality in any society. We therefore assessed the pattern of health seeking
behavior and types of maternal healthcare services utilized by women of the reproductive age in parts of
Southeastern Nigeria. A cross sectional descriptive method involving the use of a well-structured pretested
questionnaire was used to collect data from 521 randomly selected women between the ages of 15-49 years.
Informed oral consent was obtained from these women prior to their recruitment for the study. Descriptive
statistical analysis was performed on the data obtained using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS).
The mean age of the respondents was 32 ± 0.07620 years and most(50.5%) attained secondary education. There
was a significant relationship between healthcare services and mother's age (p<0.000) with women between 29-35yrs (52.2%) utilizing healthcare services more than those in other age groups. Place of residence (r =0.568,
p≤.001) and religion (r = 0.784, p≤0.001) were also significantly associated with health seeking behaviour.
About 58% of the respondents understood that good maternal healthcare can reduce maternal mortality and
morbidity. Our findings showed good health seeking behaviour and service utilization in the study area despite
the identified hindering factors. These underscore the need to empower women of reproductive age as well as to
put mechanisms in place that will increase their access to quality maternal health care services
Childbirth practices in the akpabuyo rural health and demographic surveillanc...Alexander Decker
This document discusses a study on childbirth practices in rural communities in Akpabuyo, Nigeria. The study found that:
1) The majority (84.6%) of births occurred outside formal health facilities and were attended by traditional birth attendants. Only 15.4% of births occurred in hospitals or health centers.
2) Common objects used to cut the umbilical cord included knives (46.2%) and new razor blades (30.8%), with knives being most common. Methylated spirits (63.1%) and "western medicine" (23.8%) were most commonly used to treat the umbilical cord after birth.
3) While 39.5% of women sought
A Study on the Attitude of Tribal Woman towards Re Productive Healthijtsrd
Reproductive health covers all matters relating to the reproductive system, at all stages of life. Good reproductive health for women begins in childhood and the teen years. Things such as nutrition, environment, education, income level, and cultural practices influence your reproductive health. Good reproductive health benefits the health and well being of our family. It can improve the social and economic situation of you and our family. And most importantly, it can help make sure that every infant is wanted, loved and has a chance to grow up healthy. The present study concludes that 1 4th 59 of the respondents attitude are neutral, 21percent of the respondent’s attitude are positive, and 19percent of the respondent attitude is negative towards sexual and reproductive health. Dr. Agnes Febiola. X | Saranya. S "A Study on the Attitude of Tribal Woman towards Re-Productive Health" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-7 | Issue-2 , April 2023, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com.com/papers/ijtsrd56237.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com.com/medicine/other/56237/a-study-on-the-attitude-of-tribal-woman-towards-reproductive-health/dr-agnes-febiola-x
A Study on Assessment of Knowledge of Reproductive Health Education among the...AnuragSingh1049
This document summarizes a study that assessed the knowledge of adolescent students in Jammu region, Jammu and Kashmir state, India regarding reproductive health education. The study involved surveying 400 higher secondary school students (200 boys and 200 girls) using a questionnaire. The results showed that the majority of respondents supported including reproductive health education in the school curriculum. Lecture by an expert was the preferred method of instruction. Most students believed reproductive health knowledge was important and favored obtaining it in school between the ages of 10-14 or 15-16.
Similar to International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Invention (IJHSSI) (20)
A Study on Assessment of Knowledge of Reproductive Health Education among the...
International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Invention (IJHSSI)
1. International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Invention
ISSN (Online): 2319 – 7722, ISSN (Print): 2319 – 7714
www.ijhssi.org Volume 2 Issue 7 ǁ July. 2013ǁ PP.17-20
www.ijhssi.org 17 | P a g e
The Socio-Cultural Factors Influencing The Ultilization of
Maternal And Child Healthcare Services in kwande Local
Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria
Akpenpuun Joyce Rumun
(Assistant Lecturer Department of Sociology, Benue State University, Makurdi, Benue State)
ABSTRACT: The persistent high occurrence of maternal and child morbidity and mortality especially in Sub-
Saharan African societies still reflects that much ground is yet to be covered on maternal and child
healthcare. The study therefore, investigates the socio-cultural factors that influence the utilization of MCH. The
study uses triangulation of a structured questionnaire and an in-depth interview in data collection. The study
population of 208 men and women and 4 health workers and the findings from the analyzed data reveal that
the level of education of mothers', patriarchal family system, cultural beliefs and economic stand of the
family are the factors that influence the level of utilization of maternal and child healthcare services.
Consequent upon the findings of the study, there is need for social empowerment of women and revitalization
of Primary Health Care (PHC) in Nigeria.
KEY WORDS: Socio-Cultural, Utilization, Maternal, Child, Health
I. INTRODUCTION
Maternal and child healthcare system is an important segment of medical system in every
society. This is as a result of large number of human population involved in this health sector, coupled
with the significance of this group to the overall sustenance of the human population. It is also noticed
that this sector of medical system is affected by less difficult health problems, which are usually
preventable.Similarly, the increasing wave of gender equality has significantly stimulated attention
towards the study of women and children. It is in the light of these, that this sector has attracted
overwhelming attention especially from health related researchers, health providers, and health
implementers (Kerber K. J, et al, 2007).
As observed in all cultures, each society has its peculiar way of dealing with bio-cultural problems
affecting its human population. Responses to various interventions seem to differ considering the
peculiar knowledge displayed by the population in each society. Environmental factors also play
considerable role on the health seeking strategies, thereby making the health interventions and
responses greatly different across the culture (Jegede, 1999).
In industrialized countries of the world, an appreciable success has been attained in reduction of
morbidity and mortality affecting the lives of both the mother and the child (Price, 1994). Whereas in less
industrialized countries of the world, despite all the attempts to reduce the severity of maternal and child
healthcare problems, it still remains a scourge which continues to claim the lives of a large percentage of their
populations (WHO, 2007; 2010, The World Fact Book, 2010).
Given this background, this study focused on the perception of maternal and child health care services
utilized and the factors that influence the utilization of maternal and child health care services.
II. THE PROBLEM
Many Nigerians especially indigenes and residents of rural communities born within forty to fifty
years ago might have managed to escape infant mortality by slim chances (Ajala, 2001). During that time only
few Nigerians survived to adulthood, while on the average, fifteen pregnancies for a Nigerian woman would
produce seven normal deliveries. These seven normal deliveries from a mother would avail her only three
children surviving to adulthood. Cumulatively, on every 1000 children born with success, 194 of them
might be committed to mother earth within three to five years their births (WHO, 2010). No fewer than one
thousand (1000) mothers out of 100,000 often lose their lives at childbirth (Jinadu, 1998; Population Bureau
Bulletin, 1999; Ajala, 2001, WHO, 2007). Some of them, who managed to survive, had abnormal growth due
to inadequate nutrition which results to failure to thrive and stunted growth. Their health ecology was too
disturbing to the overall health development. This situation was as a result of inadequate
knowledge of maternal and child health care, which ushered in various controllable infectious diseases
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such as cholera, marasmus, typhoid, tetanus and Polioyelitis. Diphtheria, diarrhea and measles also claim
several lives of the under fives (Jinadu, 1998 and Ajala, 2001). Mothers too were not spared of these dreadful
conditions. They suffered complications at child birth, hemorrhage and the likes as a result of
inadequate knowledge of motherhood. This situation in no doubt had posed severe inhibit ions
against individual development as well as national development (Abbas and Walker, 1986).
In traditional rural societies, the survival of this important segmen t of the population
(mothers and children) was not handled with levity. Traditional birth attendants/ paediatricians and the
herbalists were prominent in the intervention (Owumi, 1993). Although the healthcare system then was
accessible and affordable, yet child health was still a major problem in the communities (Owumi, 1993)
Between 1993 and 1999 when the country faced serious economic decline and political instability
coupled with attendant harsh micro-economic policies. Under-five mortality rate moved from 130- 194 deaths
per 1000 live births. All these affected under five children (WHO, 2007; The World Fact Book, 2010).
From the death records in developed societies, there is high rate of significant reduction of infant
mortality. For instance in Finland and France it was reduced from 17.0% to 3-7%) between 1960 and 1985, and
1985 to the present, the reduction was to 0-6 or 0-7% in these countries. Authors attributed this decline
to the activities of PHC in those countries (Price, 1994).
Therefore this work having perceived this resilient silent crisis will cover socio-cultural factors
which are discovered to be influencing the utilization of maternal and child healthcare services in the
Nigerian society using Kwande local government area as a case study. Specifically the study seeks to:
examine the socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents.
assess people's perception of Maternal and Child Healthcare (MCH) in kwande local government
area.
highlight the socio-cultural factors influencing the utilization of health care services in the study area.
III. LITERATURE REVIEW
Ayeni et al (1985) found out that utilization of health services among rural women depend on awareness
of the services, beliefs in their efficacy, proximity and availability of the services. In similar study conducted by
Gordis (1993) in Oyo and Bauchi States with respect to attitudes and practices of women to pregnancy, child
birth and post partum care, the data revealed that cultural taboos, beliefs and socio-economic factors often place
women at a disadvantage position from the start of pregnancy. Attendance of pre-natal care clinics were found
not to be wide spread. It was also found that transportation to these healthcare facilities and the cost of drugs and
vitamins represented obstacles to clinic utilization for many of these rural women. Respondents from this study
cited long waits, scarcity of drugs, equipment and the hostile attitude of hospital personnel as reasons to avoid
hospital delivery.
Jegede, (1999), in his study of socio-cultural factors influencing therapeutic choice have identified age,
education, occupation, religion, kin group influence and ethnicity as the determinant factors to use of health
services.
IV. METHODOLOGY
The study employed the community as its unit of analysis. The research involved a multi-stage
sampling technique. The first stage involved selection of two districts from the four districts that make up
Kwande local government are using simple random sampling technique.
The sample size of two hundred and eight (208) respondents were selected from the households
proportionately based on the total number of houses available to each enumeration area. The selected elements
were those that satisfied the requirements of the research purpose. In addition, four health workers were
interviewed for the study. They were selected purposively from the two wards used for the study.
SAMPLE AND SAMPLING TECHNIQUE
Structured questionnaire and in-depth interview were used in collecting data for the study. The
questionnaire was administered to two hundred and eight (208) respondents. One hundred and fifty women and
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fifty-eight men, while the in-depth interview was conducted among four health workers in the chosen
communities.
V. FINDINGS AND DISCUSSIONS
Socio-Demographic Characteristics of the Respondents: Data on the socio-demographic characteristics
of the respondents showed that most of the respondents fall within the age of 26-35 years old. 72.1% are female
while 27.9% are male. The wide variation is attributed to the fact that more women were sampled because they
were the focus of the study but men were included in order to get the male opinion.
With regard to educational background, the data showed that most of the respondents had post
secondary education. This finding indicate that majority of the sampled respondents were literate which must
have had a significant influence on their level of awareness and acceptability of maternal and child healthcare
services. This finding also showed why most of the respondents were civil servants.
Table 1 shows that, 72.1% of the respondents applauded the quality of the services provided by the
healthcare centres. This implies that, a greater number of people would patronize and use the facilities provided
at the various centres. Choice of healthcare facilities also depends on perception about efficiency and
effectiveness of the services or providers (Ajala, 2001).
Table 1: Distribution of Respondents view on the Quality of Healthcare Services
Value Label Frequency Percentages%
Bad 3 1.4
Fair 46 22.1
Good 150 72.1
No Comment 9 4.3
Total 208 100.0
Table 2 presents the factors that influence the utilization of maternal and child healthcare facilities. Its
shows that, most women use healthcare facilities because of their husband’s insistence. This account for 27.3%
of the respondents. This view is high due to the patriarchal system of the Nigerian society where the husband
has the sole decision making power over his wife and child in health matters. Gender is another important factor
determining the utilization of health care services. Recent studies have shown that Nigerian women in some
ethnic groups will not seek immediate help from health agents when they are about to deliver unless they obtain
formal permission from their spouses (Erinosho, 1998). Competency account for 14.6%, this reflects the
people’s perception about the services provided. Religious beliefs and proximity account for 23.0% and 23.9%
respectively.
Table 2: Distribution of Respondents’ view on factors that determine the utilization of maternal and child
healthcare services.
Value Label Frequency Percentage%
Competence 30 14.6%
Husbands Decision 57 27.3%
Religious Beliefs 49 23.0%
Proximity 51 23.9%
Friends Influence 12 5.7%
Cultural Beliefs 7 5.3%
Cost 2 0.2%
Total 208 100.0%
VI. CONCLUSION
Culture, belief systems and economic conditions are vital factors in determining health utilization
services which can form the major concern of those who formulate and implement government health policies.
The role which belief system, understanding the concept of disease, illness and health, improvement in the
socio-economic status of the people and well planned education can all help in ensuring maximum and most
efficient utilization of the health services cannot be over emphasized. Communities on their own part should
encourage their members to appreciate health facilities, provided by the government and utilize them.
In order to combat the problem of maternal and child mortality and morbidity, the standard of living of
the Nigerian populace must be raised. Extreme poverty is not only the source of disease and mortality, but it is
also one of the chief causes of bottleneck in public health delivery in Nigeria.
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There is a great need for revitalization of Primary Health Care in Nigeria. PHC is a fundamental means
of responding to the community’s need for health services. It ensures community participation in planning and
implementing their own healthcare, generating health awareness, mobilizing the community and preventing
infections. PHC is highly adaptive in maternal and child healthcare. This integrated approach is a deserving
solution to maternal and child health problems in the rural communities in Nigeria.
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