KNOWLEDGE, CARE PRACTICES OF CAREGIVERS OF CHILDREN UNDER 5 YEARS AND HOUSEHOLD FOOD SECURITY STATUS IN 2 POOR COMMUNES IN SIN HO DISTRICT, LAI CHAU PROVINCE, 2023

Minh Anh NGUYEN1, , Thanh Duong TRAN1, Tuyet Mai TRUONG1, Thi Thu Trang TRAN1, Duc Huong VU1, Quoc Truong DUONG2
1 National Institute of Nutrition, Vietnam
2 Thai Nguyen University of Medicine and Pharmacy

Main Article Content

Abstract

Aims: To describe the knowledge and child care practices of caregivers and assess household food security status among families with children under 5 years in 2 poor communes in Sin Ho district, Lai Chau province in 2023.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 838 caregivers of children under 5 years in 2 poor communes in Sin Ho district, Lai Chau province. Data on knowledge and practices were collected and evaluated according to WHO recommendations. Household food security status was assessed using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS).

Results: Some aspects of caregiver knowledge were relatively good (95.7% knew about more than 5 food groups for complementary feeding…). However, the proportion of appropriate child care practices remained low. Only 20.6% practiced early initiation of breastfeeding, and 12.3% of children (6-23 months) achieved minimum dietary diversity. Household food insecurity was severe, with 46.1% of households experiencing food insecurity (of which 22.7% experienced severe food insecurity). Common manifestations included anxiety about food insufficiency (38.2%), inability to afford preferred foods (31.5%), and going to bed hungry (14.9%).

Conclusion: A substantial knowledge-practice gap exists in child nutrition, closely associated with food insecurity. Food insecurity is a major barrier; integrated interventions combining nutrition education and livelihood support are needed to ensure household food security.

Article Details

References

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