ABSTRACT

Appropriate feeding practices are essential for the nutrition, growth, development and

survival of infants and young children.Assessment of infant and young child feeding

(IYCF) practices and nutritional status of children (0-23 months) in Funtua Local

Government Area, Katsina State was carried out which incorporated qualitative and

quantitative data collection techniques. Data was obtained using pretested semi-

structured questionnaire with weight and length taken, in addition to their serum

mineral status (Iron, Zinc, Copper and Calcium) using standard methods. Results

indicated that early initiation of breastfeeding was practiced by 82.4% whereas

exclusive breastfeeding was very low (5.1%) and continued breastfeeding up to two

years was practiced by 60.6% of the respondents in the study area. Proportion of

children that had minimum dietary diversity were low (5.3%) with minimum meal

frequency of 38.8 and 5.3% for breastfed and non-breastfed children respectively,

while Iron rich or iron fortified foods were consumed by 21.2% of the respondents

and minimum acceptable diet for breastfed and non-breastfed was 4 and 8.3%

respectively. Nutritional status of the children indicates stunting (55.7%), wasting

(25.3%) and underweight (49.1%) showed significant correlation with breastfeeding

practices. Serum minerals level of iron and zinc were low in 76% and 54% of the

children respectively, as well as serum copper (69%) and calcium (60%).

Haemoglobin and Packed Cell Volume were less than the recommended levels

(≥11mgldL and ≥33% respectively). The high prevalence of malnutrition obtained in

the study area may be due to the poor feeding practices. Further studies are needed to

identify the barriers to optimize IYCF practices of caregivers in the study area

 CHAPTER ONE