Community Health

Knowledge, attitude and practices of teenage mothers on prevention of diarrhoea in children less than five years old in Ndhiwa sub-county, Homa bay county, Kenya

2025-11-12T06:27:18Z

Knowledge, attitude and practices of teenage mothers on prevention of diarrhoea in children less than five years old in Ndhiwa sub-county, Homa bay county, Kenya ODODA, Everlyne Achieng Diarrhoea is the passage of loose, watery or liquid stools three or more times a day. Diarrhoea may be acute, persistent, or chronic and is often preventable and treatable. Diarrhoea disease is the second leading cause of mortality in children <5 years of age, resulting in approximately 1.7 billion cases globally and 525,000 deaths each year. The low- and middle-income countries account for about 90% of these deaths, with sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia reporting 88%. In Kenya, over 50% of children <5 years hospital admission results from diarrhoeal related infections. In Ndhiwa Sub-County, diarrhoea is among the leading causes of hospital admission among children aged <5 years old. Although the causes of morbidity and mortality associated with diarrhoeal diseases in children <5 years including the mothers‟ knowledge, perception and management factors has been reported, the impact of these factorsamong teenagemothers remain largely unknown. With the proportion of teenage mothers estimated at 18 % in Kenya, and 33% in Homa Bay County (ranked 1st of 47counties), this study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitude and practices of teenage mothers on diarrhoea prevention among their children aged <5 years in Ndhiwa Sub-County, Homa Bay County. Specifically, the study investigated socioeconomic factors among teenage mothers with children <5 years old, and determined their knowledge, attitude, and prevention practices on diarrhoea outcomes. A cross sectional descriptive study design was used. Total of 320 teenage mothers were recruited using multistage sampling technique. Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires andanalyzed using SPSS software. Statistical significance was set at P≤0.050. Results from binary logistic regression model showed that the marital status of teenage mother; namely never married (P=0.016) or divorced (P=0.023) increased odds of diarrhoea in children, while mothers‟ occupation (fulltime student, P=0.027) significantly increased the odds of diarrhoea. Poor knowledge on general prevention of diarrhoea (P<0.001), rubbish dumping (P=0.010) and Rota/ measles vaccination (P<0.001) were associated with increased incidences of diarrhoea in children aged <5 years. Analysis of general prevention practices of teenage mothers and diarrhoea outcome among their children revealed that poor practices (P<0.001) increased the odds of diarrhoeal episodes. Furthermore, negative attitudes of teenage mothers towards diarrhoea prevention practices increased the odds of children presenting with diarrhoea (P=0.006). In conclusion, these results show that the teenage mother characteristics, knowledge, practices and attitudes on childhood diarrhoea and prevention were associated with reported incidences of diarrhoea among children <5 years. The study recommends that the County Government of Homa Bay develop intervention measures to mitigate identified factors associated with increased incidences of diarrhoea cases in children aged <5 years of teenage mothers. Master's Thesis

Relationship between glycated haemoglobin 1c and red blood cell parameters in type 2 diabetes patients at Bungoma county referral hospital, Kenya

2025-11-11T12:07:50Z

Relationship between glycated haemoglobin 1c and red blood cell parameters in type 2 diabetes patients at Bungoma county referral hospital, Kenya MALABA, Joseph Sifuna Diabetes mellitus (DM) is among the leading global health concerns, causing over 1.5 million deaths alongside other significant comorbidities and complications. Conventional diagnoses have revolved around estimating fasting, random blood glucose levels and glucose tolerance test. For monitoring purposes, long-term glycaemic control has been achieved through the measurement of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), which is considered a reliable and preferred marker for DM. However, it could be affected by red blood cell parameters such as haemoglobin levels (Hb), Mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC).Furthermore, it could be affected by haemoglobin types like HbA, HbA2, and HbF concentrations whose magnitude remains unclear. As such, the current study investigated these potential interferences, which constitute the problem under investigation. It sought to determine the association between HbA1c and red cell parameters, assess the relationship between HbA1c and haemoglobin types, and find out the association between haemoglobin types and red cell parameters among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The purpose of the study was to explore possible HbA1c interference and how it relates to red blood cell parameters and haemoglobin types. The study sought to supplement the existing literature on possible HbA1c interferences, which has been unavailable in reference to the local population, and help inform the formulation of local policies regarding DM monitoring. In this cross-sectional study, 72 participants presenting with T2DMand 72 controls at the Bungoma County Referral Hospital were recruited using simple random sampling. Bungoma County was a suitable study due to a cited higher T2DM burden within the region. Red cell parameters were analysed using the Celtac G MEK-9100K machine (Nihon Kohden Europe). HbA1c and other Haemoglobin variants were measured using ion-exchange high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) by the Bio-Rad D-10 machine (Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc). Chi-square (2) analysis was used to determine the differences between proportions. Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare laboratory characteristics between type 2 DM and non-diabetics. With HbA as the reference group, the association between HbA1c and red blood cell parameters was determined using binary logistic regression while controlling for uncontrolled diabetes status. The relationship between HbA1c and haemoglobin types was determined using binary logistic regression. Association between haemoglobin types and red blood cell parameters was determined using Pearson correlation. Haemoglobin p=0.003, MCH p=0.007 and MCHC p=0.001 were markedly increased in diabetic patients relative to non-diabetics. With non-diabetics as the reference group, HbA1c was associated with increased HbA0 [OR=1.059, 95% CI=1.020-1.099, p=0.003] and increased HbA2 [OR=3.893, 95% CI=2.161-7.014, p=0.001]. However, there was no significant association between HbA1c and HbF[OR=2.062, 95% CI=0.873-4.875, p=0.099].HCT had a negative correlation with HbAO (r= -0.271, p=0.021) and a positive correlation with HbAS (r= 0.292, p=0.013) in participants with controlled diabetes.MCV and MCH had a negative correlation with HbF, (r= -0.291, p=0.013) and(r= -0.298, p=0.011) respectively. MCH had a negative correlation with HbA2 (r= -0.389, p=0.001) in participants with uncontrolled diabetes. In conclusion,HbA1c was not significantly associated with red blood cell parameters while it significantly correlated with haemoglobin types in T2DM. Additionally, HCT correlated negatively with HbA0 and positively with HbAS, while MCV and MCH had a negative correlation with HbF for the diabetic participants. Thus, Hb types are potential interferences in HbA1c estimation while RBC parameters are not. Master's Thesis

Influence of perceptions of caregivers with children under 5 years on utilization of insecticide treated nets in Butere Sub County, Kakamega county Kenya

2025-11-10T12:05:53Z

Influence of perceptions of caregivers with children under 5 years on utilization of insecticide treated nets in Butere Sub County, Kakamega county Kenya KURUI, J. Jacklyne Malaria remains one of the leading public health challenges globally, affecting approximately 263 million people and causing an estimated 597,000 deaths annually. Sub-Saharan Africa bears the greatest burden, accounting for 94% of global cases. In Kenya, malaria continues to pose a significant threat, with an estimated six million cases reported annually. This study examined behavioral determinants of insecticide-treated net (ITN) utilization among caregivers of children under five years in Butere Sub-County, Kakamega County, Kenya, using the Health Belief Model (HBM) as a guiding framework. A community-based cross-sectional study design was employed, involving 422 caregivers selected through multistage cluster sampling. Quantitative data were collected using structured, interviewer-administered questionnaires, while qualitative data were obtained through 22 focus group discussions (FGDs) and 12 key informant interviews (KIIs) with caregivers and community health promoters. Quantitative data were analyzed using chi-square and logistic regression at a 95% confidence level (p < 0.05), and qualitative data were thematically analyzed using NVivo 12. The dependent variable was ITN utilization, while the independent variables—perceived vulnerability, severity, benefits, and barriers—captured caregivers’ beliefs regarding malaria risk and prevention. Results indicated that 74.6% of caregivers perceived children under five as vulnerable to malaria, and 88.6% believed they were at greater risk than adults. Caregivers who perceived malaria as a serious illness were 2.5 times more likely to use ITNs [AOR = 2.517; 95% CI: 1.175–5.391; p = 0.002], while those associating malaria with anemia were less likely to use them. A significant association was found between perceived vulnerability and ITN utilization (χ² = 4.219; p = 0.040; OR = 0.343; 95% CI: 0.119–0.995). Qualitative findings revealed that although caregivers acknowledged the effectiveness of ITNs, consistent use was hindered by discomfort from heat, torn nets, limited supply, and cultural beliefs such as the ―bad eye.‖ These insights highlight a paradox within the HBM: despite high awareness of malaria’s severity and children’s vulnerability, consistent ITN use remains suboptimal due to behavioral and contextual barriers. The study concludes that targeted, culturally sensitive interventions—integrating health education, improved ITN access, and community engagement—are essential to strengthen caregivers’ perceived benefits and reduce practical and cultural barriers. Addressing these factors will enhance ITN utilization and contribute to sustainable malaria prevention among children under five in endemic regions. Master's Thesis

Prevalence and factors associated with shisha smoking by youth In tertiary institutions, Kisumu county, Kenya

2025-03-12T13:46:57Z

Prevalence and factors associated with shisha smoking by youth In tertiary institutions, Kisumu county, Kenya MUTEI, Redempta david The tobacco epidemic has a significant public health challenge worldwide, affecting approximately 1.1 billion smokers, with a particularly high prevalence in low- and middle- income countries, with over 7 million deaths annually; a figure projected to rise. shisha smoking has rapidly gained popularity among youth, often surpassing traditional cigarette use. This trend was attributed to social acceptance and the appealing flavours of shisha, despite the severe health risks associated with its use, which are frequently underestimated. In Kenya, 37% of university students in Nairobi County were engaging in shisha smoking, coupled with a widespread lack of awareness regarding its health implications. Despite the growing prevalence of shisha smoking among the youth, data specifically focusing on its use in Kenya remains limited. Consequently, this study aimed to assess the prevalence and factors influencing shisha smoking among youth in tertiary institutions in Kisumu County. The study set out to determine the prevalence of shisha use, to explore individual and environmental factors influencing its consumption among students in tertiary institutions. A cross-sectional study design with a sample of 398 students from a target population of 26,384 students aged 18 - 24 years reflecting a known prevalence of 37% was drawn from institutions: Maseno University, Uzima University College, Great Lakes University, Kenya Medical Training College-Kisumu, and the Kisumu National Polytechnic. Institutions were purposely sampled, and each sample was determined using population proportionate to size, stratified sampling was employed to obtain students across all academic years and simple random sampling was used to achieve the sample size. Reliability of the questionnaires was assessed using a Cronbach’s Alpha with a score of 0.718, and data collection was conducted by trained research assistants using pre-tested questionnaires. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25. Frequencies and percentages were used to determine prevalence and reasons for shisha smoking. Cramer’s V and Chi-square p-value <0.05 were used to establish associations. Twenty-nine percent of students had smoked Shisha in the past one year, with current smokers at 32.3%. Curiosity (26.6%), pleasure-seeking (21.8%), the appeal of flavours (19.4%) and peer pressure influenced (33.9%) of the students to smoke shisha. There was no significant association between self-esteem and shisha smoking (p-value 0.407). In conclusion high prevalence of shisha smoking among tertiary students was significantly driven by social dynamics, peer pressure, and misconceptions about its safety compared to cigarettes. Psychological peer counsellors should educate the youth population on the health effects associated with shisha smoking. Master's Thesis

Behavioural and social-demographic risk factors associated with hypertension among low income adultsin Kiambu County, Kenya

2025-02-11T18:24:35Z

Behavioural and social-demographic risk factors associated with hypertension among low income adultsin Kiambu County, Kenya NDITHIA, James Mwangi Hypertension is one of the important risk factors for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, and a leading risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and premature death. There is limited data on community-based prevalence of behavioural CVD risk levels among adults in Kiambu County. The objectives of this study were to; estimate the prevalence of hypertension among low income adults in selected wards; determine social and demographic characteristics associated with hypertension; assess the lifestyle factors associated with hypertension and determine the dietary factors associated with hypertension among low-income adults in Kiambu County, Kenya. A cross-sectional study design was used. The study population was adults in Juja and Ruiru wards in Kiambu County. A sample of 308 was determined using Fishers formula. Multistage sampling was used to select the participants. Data were collected using adapted questionnaires. Stata statistical package version 18 was used for data entry and analysis. Categorical data was analysed and reported in frequency and percentages while continuous data was analysed using measures of central tendencies and dispersion where mean and range were reported. Bivariate analysis of risk factors was done using Chi square test as a measure of association and the statistical significance was considered at p < 0.05. Multiple logistic regression was used to analyse factors associated with high blood pressure. A total of 308 participants took part in the study. Majority (75.6%) were female and participants‘ mean age was 45.3 years. Results showed 31.5% of participants had high blood pressure (systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mmHg). Social-demographic characteristics associated with hypertension included male gender (AOR=2.33; 95% CI 1.09 - 4.99), older age groups (AOR=3.1-11.3 p<0.05) and history of hypertension (AOR= 10.59; 95% CI 5.06- 22.13). Lifestyle factors associated with hypertension were, alcohol consumption (AOR=3.3; 95% CI 1.66-6.57), being physically active (AOR=0.51; 95% CI 0.28-0.90), being overweight (AOR=5.4; 95% CI 2.91-10.01) and obese (AOR=13.4; 95% CI 5.21-34.26). Dietary factors associated with hypertension were eating fruits daily (AOR=0.5; 95% CI 0.25-0.96) and rarely (AOR=0.19; 95% CI 0.07-0.51/ never (AOR=0.11; 95% CI 0.03-0.41) and adding raw salt to food while eating. In conclusion, the prevalence of hypertension among the participants was high at 31.5%. Socio-demographic characteristic including male sex, increasing age and having family history of hypertension were associated with greater odds of being hypertensive. Similarly, lifestyle factors associated with increased of odds of being hypertensive were alcohol consumption, physical inactivity and being obese. Eating fruits daily and avoiding raw salt were protective dietary factors against hypertension. The county department of health through the community health workers should educate the community members on healthy diet and healthy lifestyle choices for control of blood pressure such physical activity and avoiding alcohol consumption. Master's Thesis

Factors associated with thrombocytopenia among pregnant women seeking antenatal care services in Homabay teaching and referral hospital in Homabay county, Kenya

2024-12-02T15:40:21Z

Factors associated with thrombocytopenia among pregnant women seeking antenatal care services in Homabay teaching and referral hospital in Homabay county, Kenya SEBUWUFU, Pius Thrombocytopenia has been defined as a bleeding disorder characterized by the circulation of lower than normal amounts of platelets in the blood. Globally, thrombocytopenia is considered to be the most common hematological abnormality among pregnant women. In Kenya, the prevalence of thrombocytopenia among pregnant women has not been documented, however, records at the Homabay County Teaching and Referral Hospital (HTRH) show that between the year 2019 and 2021, there was an increase in the number of cases of thrombocytopenia among pregnant women attending the facility compared to the data for the same period in the neighboring Counties. Several factors have been associated with thrombocytopenia among pregnant women include; bone marrow disorder such as leukemia, side effects of taking certain medications, hereditary, gestational related thrombocytopenia, infections such as malaria, HIV, and diseases such as aplastic anemia. However, the majority of the studies done so far have focused on pediatric hematological cases, leaving information gap on factors associated with thrombocytopenia among pregnant women. Anodal information remotely relate malaria in pregnancy history, HIV infections and even familial characteristics with thrombocytopenia occurrence among pregnant women but this needs to confirmed by a formal study. The overall objective of this study therefore was to investigate the factors associated with thrombocytopenia among pregnant women seeking antenatal care services (ANC) in Homabay County, Kenya. The specific objectives were to determine the association between familial characteristics, malaria, and HIV/AIDS and thrombocytopenia among pregnant women. The study adopted cross-sectional design with a sample size of 161 pregnant women seeking ANC services at HTRH. Consecutive sampling method was used to select the participants. This approach was complemented with retrospective assessment of disease events to capture other information. The data collection tools were a structured questionnaire and a medical record abstraction form. The data analysis involved univariable, bi-variable and multivariable techniques. Inferential analysis was done using a binomial logit model, with statistical significance established at P-values less than 0.05. Ethical clearance was obtained from the MUERC, HTRH, and NACOSTI. Consent was also sought from each of the participants as a show of one’s own discretion to participate in the study. The prevalence of thrombocytopenia among pregnant women in Homabay County was 14%; the odds of having thrombocytopenia were less by 94% among pregnant women to whom the person with thrombocytopenia history in their family was their first or second degree relative (aOR = 0.056 [95% CI = 0.003 - 0.923], P = 0.044). The odds of having thrombocytopenia in the current pregnancy were 8 times higher among pregnant women who had malaria in pregnancy ( aOR = 8.199 (95% CI = 2.466 - 27.263], P = 0.001). None of the HIV related characteristics had a statistically significant association with thrombocytopenia in pregnancy. Thrombocytopenia is a reality among pregnant women in Homabay and substantially prevalent, going by global and regional prevalence. In addition, the findings of this study may be a basis for policy amendment to accord the disease due attention as a maternal mortality risk confounder and thrombocytopenia should be assessed among pregnant women. Master's Thesis

Factors affecting trachoma control and prevention among pastoralist in Kirisia sub-county, Samburu county, Kenya

2024-12-02T15:32:50Z

Factors affecting trachoma control and prevention among pastoralist in Kirisia sub-county, Samburu county, Kenya MWANIKI, Solomon Trachoma is still a public health and socioeconomic problem, majorly in sub-Saharan Africa. Trachoma control and prevention efforts have over the past few decades realized significant progress. However, numerous challenges remain to be circumvented in order to achieve effective control and prevention of this disease in endemic communities. Though this disease is preventable and treatable, its prevalence in Samburu County as well as Kirisia Sub-county remains high above the WHO recommended threshold of 10% and 1% in children between 1-9 years and individuals above 15 years, respectively. Moreover, there is a gap in knowledge on the factors contributing to the sustained high trachoma prevalence in the area. This cross-sectional study focused on the assessment of socioeconomic, cultural and health system factors affecting trachoma control and prevention among pastoralist in Kirisia, Samburu County. A multistage sampling technique on 446 respondents comprising of household heads aged 18 years and above was explored. Quantitative and qualitative techniques were used to collect data which was analyzed using SPSS windows version 28.0 at P≤0.05 level of significance. Findings from this study revealed that majority of the respondents (63%) were female, 43.8% had not completed any level of formal education, 51% were low-income earners and 33.4% were unemployed. The median average age and SD of the informants was 38.9±13.5. Individual level factors that increased the risk of trachoma transmission included the level of income (P>0.05), level of knowledge on trachoma transmission, prevention and control (P>0.05), level of education (P>0.05), occupation (P>0.05), distance to water sources (P>0.05). Healthcare facilities were reported to be significantly far from households (P<0.05). Additionally, behaviors predisposing the informants to trachoma such as open defecation (33.9%), lack of hand and face washing facilities (41%), poor treatment seeking behavior (5.8%), self-medication (5.2%), and use of herbs (1.2%) while health facility factors included distance from the households (P>0.01). Inadequate ophthalmologists (85.5%) and inadequate equipment (3.6%), low coverage and visitation by community health volunteers to households (23.3%) were among the factors influencing trachoma spread reported by the informants. Association analyses revealed a relationship between level of education and the following trachoma risk factors, namely; level of income, religion, level of knowledge on trachoma transmission, prevention, and control, face washing behavior, latrine ownership, and water treatment behavior (P<0.05). This study also reports a significant association between religion and cultural factors (P<0.05), face washing behavior and distance to water sources during the dry season (P<0.05), knowledge on trachoma and water treatment behavior (P<0.05), occupation and waste disposal (P<0.05), knowledge on trachoma and water treatment behavior (P<0.05), and distance to healthcare facility and time taken to seek treatment when sick (P<0.05). These study findings could be used to inform, plan and initiate socio-culturally sensitive sustainable interventions to combat the identified high-risk factors and undesirable practices in favor of safe, effective and sustainable trachoma control methods among the pastoralist in Samburu County, Kenya. Master's Thesis

Factors influencing uptake of long-term family planning methods among women of reproductive age in Nyaribari chache sub- county, Kisii county, Kenya

2024-12-02T14:21:40Z

Factors influencing uptake of long-term family planning methods among women of reproductive age in Nyaribari chache sub- county, Kisii county, Kenya MURERWA, Caroline Kangai Family planning (FP) is a key strategy for achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1, 3, 4, 5 and 10. It provides an opportunity to ensure a balance between population size and available resources and directly contributes to improved maternal and newborn health. Promotion of FP in countries with high birth rates has the potential to reduce poverty and hunger and avert 32% of all maternal deaths and nearly 10% of childhood deaths. In Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), the rate of population growth is one of the highest in the world at 2.8%. In Kenya, use of long-term family planning methods also referred to as long acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) remains relatively low compared to other methods; with Total Fertility Rate (TFR) at 3.9, while Contraceptive Prevalence Rate (CPR) and unmet need for FP being estimated at 58% and 18% respectively. Kisii County is one of the populous counties in Kenya with total fertility rate of 3.7 children per woman hence the need to maximize use of LARCs. This study sought to assess factors that influence uptake of long-term family planning methods in women of reproductive age in Nyaribari Chache Sub-County. Specifically, the current study assessed the knowledge, socio–cultural and facility-related factors influencing uptake of long-term family planning methods (LARC) in women of reproductive age (15-49yrs) in Nyaribari Chache Sub-County, Kisii County. A cross-sectional study design was adopted. Women of reproductive age (n=406) residing in Nyaribari Chache Sub-County identified as the sudy population. Simple random sampling was adopted for individual questionnaire administration while key informant interviews were conducted to get views of the health facility to establish facility-related factors influencing the use of long-term FP methods. Data analysis was done by entering data in Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 22.0. Important summary statistics were obtained and associations were examined using Chi-square test. Study participants grouped into two categories, non-user of LARC (n=294) and users of LARC (n=112) Logistic regression conducted while controlling for age and marital status showed that knowledge of LARC had a two-fold increase in the use of LARC by women of reproductive age (P=0.001), women whose income was above Ksh10,000 (P=0.001), those who interacted with women groups (P=0.001) had increased use of LARC while decreased use of LARC was observed in casual labourers and peasant farmers (P=0.001), those with 4 and above living children (P=0.041). Attending a government health facility increased the uptake of LARC (P=0.020) in Nyaribari Chache Sub-County, Kisii County, Kenya. Results presented are crucial in informing the government, health care organizations, program managers and policy makers on knowledge, socio–cultural and facility-related factors influencing uptake of long-term family planning methods to design specific FP initiatives in order to achieve the SDGs and decrease the unmet need for contraceptives. Master's Thesis

Hiv transmission risk perceptions and factors associated with traditional child care practices among hiv+ve mothers attending Jaramogi Oginga Odinga teaching and referral Hospital, Kenya

2024-12-02T13:49:24Z

Hiv transmission risk perceptions and factors associated with traditional child care practices among hiv+ve mothers attending Jaramogi Oginga Odinga teaching and referral Hospital, Kenya OKANDA, John Oduor Traditional child care practices of premastication, uvulectomy and false teeth extraction are widespread in Africa including Kenya, but are not well documented in Kisumu County. Despite these practices being potential routes of HIV transmission, it is not known whether HIV-infected mothers consider them risky practices in the context of HIV transmission, especially in areas like Kisumu County that has the second highest HIV prevalence in Kenya at 17.4%. The study sort to investigate HIV transmission risk perceptions and factors associated with traditional child care practices among HIV-infected mothers attending Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), Kenya. Specific objectives were to determine prevalence of the practices, identify cultural and socio-demographic factors associated with the practices and to determine association between the practices and perception of risk of HIV transmission to the children. A mixed method cross-sectional study was done between July 2021 and January 2022. A consecutive sample of 216 mothers out of 245 were enrolled for quantitative interviews and 3 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) of 7, 8 and 7 participants for qualitative interviews. A questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data and interviewer guide for qualitative data from FGDs. False teeth extraction was most prevalent practice at 21.8%, uvulectomy at 14.9%, and premastication at 8.8%. Participants aged 24-28yrs were 59% less likely to practices the methods compared to those aged 19-23 years (OR=0.41, P=0.022). Mothers with post-secondary education were 61% less likely to practice these methods compared to those reporting primary level of education (OR= 0.39, P=0.049). Widowed or separated mothers had nearly 3-fold risk of practicing these methods compared to singles (OR=2.96, P = 0.049); whereas participants reporting being afraid of missing next meal were 2.4 times likely to practice these methods compared to those not afraid of missing next meal (OR= 2.41, P <0.001). Majority (71.3%) of participants were aware about risk of transmitting HIV through these practices. Paradoxically, proportion of mothers engaging in the practices was lower among those who said the risk of HIV-transmission through traditional practices was low compared to those who said the risk was high (PR=0.93, P=0.033). Proportion of mothers who engage in traditional practices was more than 4-fold among those who don‘t know if afraid of their babies getting HIV infection through traditional practices compared to those were afraid (PR=4.27, P<0.001). Results show that HIV-infected mothers are engaging in risky traditional practices. Continuous sensitization on these risky practices is necessary among HIV-infected mothers to discourage the practices. Master's Thesis

Factors associated with exclusive breast feeding among formally employed women seeking maternal and child health services at Kenyatta national Hospital, Kenya

2024-02-14T17:02:35Z

Factors associated with exclusive breast feeding among formally employed women seeking maternal and child health services at Kenyatta national Hospital, Kenya KAWIRA, Caroline Gitari Kenyan prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding is currrently at 60% which is a slight decline from 61% in 2014 and still falls short of the World Health Organization recommendation for global coverage. At Kenyatta National Hospital, 48% of the women with children attending the Mother and Child Health (MCH) clinic are in formal employment with only 29% of its health professionals exclusively breastfeeding while 51.2% of mothers with newborn babies have good breastfeeding practices with majority intending to breastfeed exclusively for 6 months. A better understanding of the factors that influence EBF is important in order to promote appropriate infant feeding practices especially among the formally employed women in contribution to the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals. This study sought to determine factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding among formally employed women seeking Maternal and Child Health services at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). The study objectives were to; establish the maternal, family, and workplace – related factors that associated with exclusive breastfeeding among formally employed women seeking MCH services at KNH, Kenya. A cross-sectional study design was employed which targeted 195 mothers with children below 6 months out of approximately 688 formally employed women seeking MCH services at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). Systematic Random Sampling technique was used. The study employed questionnaires to collect data on maternal, family and workplace related factors and how they associate with exclusive breastfeeding. Data from questionnaires was cleaned, coded and entered into IBM SPSS version 23 for analysis. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse the population characteristics of maternal, family and workplace related factors and their association with exclusive breastfeeding among formally employed women seeking MCH services at KNH was computed using Pearson‟s chi square at 95% confidence level. A P-value of < 0.05 was utilized as the statistical significance criterion. The study found that slightly over half 53.5% (n=104) are classified as having exclusively breastfed while 46.5% (n=91) are classified as non-exclusive breastfeeding. The maternal and work-related factors were not significantly associated with exclusive breastfeeding while family related factors were found to be significantly associated with exclusive breastfeeding among formally employed women. The study concludes that the rate of exclusive breastfeeding is significantly associated with family support. The study thus calls for more community sensitization on breast-feeding and the need for employers to strengthen their measures to support breastfeeding employees. Master's Thesis