Knowledge About Malnutrition Its Prevention and Control among Mothers of Under Five Children in Rural Area

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Abstract Background: Malnutrition remains a significant public health concern among children under five in India. A primary contributing factor is the inadequate knowledge of parents, especially mothers, regarding nutrition. Objective: The study aimed to assess maternal knowledge regarding malnutrition, its prevention and control, and to explore its association with selected sociodemographic variables. The study was based on the Health Promotion Model (HPM) proposed by Nola J. Pender (1982; revised 2002). Methods: A quantitative, non-experimental descriptive design was adopted. The study was conducted among 100 mothers of under-five children in a rural area using non-probability purposive sampling. Data were collected using a self-structured questionnaire assessing knowledge on malnutrition, its types, risk factors, prevention, and control. Statistical analysis included frequency, percentage, and Chi-square test. Results: Out of 100 participants, 77% had average knowledge scores (score range 9–16). The mean knowledge score was 2.09 with a standard deviation of 0.473. Chi-square analysis showed no significant association between knowledge scores and sociodemographic variables such as age, education, occupation, family income, number of children, religion, type of family, type of food consumed, and duration of breastfeeding. Conclusion: The study highlights the moderate knowledge levels of mothers regarding malnutrition. Enhancing awareness through targeted education programs is essential to improve child health outcomes and prevent malnutrition. These findings support integrating nutrition education into existing maternal and child health programs

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