Nutrition knowledge and health vulnerability of mothers of pre-school children in north-central, Nigeria

This study explores the contribution of nutrition knowledge to the health status of pre-school children's mothers in Niger State, North-Central, Nigeria. The study is a descriptive cross-sectional design using a quantitative data collection method. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to recruit 450 mothers of pre-school children across Niger state, Nigeria. Chi-square and linear regression were used to test the level of statistical significance (at p < 0.05). Socioeconomic and demographic information, anthropometric indices and nutrition knowledge were obtained using semi-structured questionnaires. Feeding patterns were also assessed using a qualitative 7-day dietary recall. The results showed that the majority (63.8%) of the mothers were within 26-35 years, and more than half (51.6%) of the mothers lacked knowledge of a "balanced diet". Fruits, vegetables, and dairy products were the least consumed food group among the mothers (7.1% and 9.1%, respectively). Place of residence, occupation, and method of waste disposal were significantly associated with maternal minimum dietary diversity adequacy (p