Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Study about Complementary Feeding in Mothers with Children Upto 02 Years Age Group in Urban Slums across Bhopal City

Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Study about Complementary Feeding

Abstract

Background: Objective of our study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of complementary feeding among mothers in various Urban Slums across Bhopal City. Subjects and Methods: A cross sectional study was done about knowledge of mothers with children below 2 years of age with help of pretested self designed questionnaire based interview who are attending Anganwadi Centre & Slum Areas. Results: In our study most of mothers did not know correct time of starting complementary feeding, they also did not know what food can be given, frequency and amount of complementary feed. Conclusion: Knowledge of Mothers concerning timing of complementary feeding is inadequate and practice and attitude are inappropriate. Majority of them are not aware of the current recommendations. Health education about correct feeding should be given to mothers and family members including appropriate time for complementary feeding initiation, complementary foods, its preparation and practices to give on proper time and amount and hygiene. It will help to prevent malnutrition, infant and under 5 mortality and morbidity and improve the health status of children. Correct information and guidelines about complementary feeding is not reaching the target population. False beliefs, customs and attitude of the mother tend to wean the child late. Poor breastfeeding and inappropriate complementary feeding practices are the principal proximate causes of malnutrition during the first two years of life.Study Design: Cross Sectional Study