The Status of Young Children's Nutrition Security in Rural Area of Northwest Ethiopia

Fentaw Teshome; Adino Andaregie; Tessema Astatkie; Beneberu Assefa

doi:10.18502/jnfs.v9i2.15430

Fentaw Teshome Department of Agricultural Economics, Injibara University, Injibara, Ethiopia
Adino Andaregie Graduate School of Economics, Soka University, Tokyo, Japan
Tessema Astatkie Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, Canada
Beneberu Assefa Department of Rural Development and Agricultural Extension, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jnfs.v9i2.15430

Keywords: Recommended dietary allowances; Growth disorders; Malnutrition; School age population; Eating behavior.

Abstract

Background: Nutrition security is a vital component of growth and development in a nation. However, dietary diversity and availability of healthy food are serious challenges to many local communities in Ethiopia. The objective of the study was to identify status and determinants of nutrition security of school-age children in Northwest Ethiopia. Methods: Primary data were collected and analyzed using a binary logistic regression model to determine the significance of nutrition security odds ratio of 12 variables. Results: The results revealed that around 55.4% of school-age children were nutritionally insecure and underweight, and 44.6% were stunted. The significant determinants of nutrition security in the study area were milk consumption, healthy eating habit, fruits and vegetables consumption, educational status of the guardian, meat consumption, and the child’s place of residence. Conclusion: The findings of the study showed the need for nutrition education of the children and their guardians, and the need for accessibility of diverse and nutritious food products to help the school-age children with acute wasting and stunting problems they are facing.