Socio-Cultural Determinants of Malnutrition Among Under 5 Children in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined socio-cultural determinants of malnutrition among under 5 children in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Following a quantitative approach and purposive sampling technique, 400 female participants were recruited. Data from the validated structured questionnaires were analysed using chi-square procedure. The study revealed that There is a significant relationship between household income, cultural practices and malnutrition among under 5 children in Akwa Ibom State. The study concluded by stating that household income, cultural practices affect malnutrition among under 5 children in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The study recommended among other things that low-income household should be provided with palliatives to raise their standard of living. Also, awareness should be created by attitudinal re- orientation commission on the effect of cultural practice and proper feeding of infant as an important stage in child development.