Journal of Case Reports and Reviews in Medicine (ISSN: 3069-0749)
Research Article Volume: 1 & Issue: 4
Abstract
In Ethiopia, undernutrition among lactating women is a significant public health concern; however, there is a lack of specific data from areas such as Shone Town. Cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2023–January 2024 to assess the prevalence of undernutrition, identify its determinants, and explore perceptions of body weight among lactating women in Shone Town, Ethiopia. We used a mixed-methods approach, combining a community-based with a phenomenological qualitative investigation. A multistage systematic sampling was used to recruit 495 lactating women who were less than 24 months postpartum. Anthropometry (BMI <18.5 kg/m² = undernutrition), dietary variety, and household food security were among the quantitative data. 42 participants in four focus groups explored their perspectives on body weight. Open Code 4.02 used for thematic data analysis, and multivariate logistic regression for determinant analysis. Prevalence of undernutrition was 32.5% (95% CI: 28.6–37.5%). High parity (≥3 births) (AOR = 0.26; 95% CI: 0.18-0.39; p < 0.001), husband’s farming occupation (AOR = 0.05; 95% CI: 0.01-0.32; p = 0.002), and proximity to a healthcare center (≤3 km) (AOR = 0.61; 95% CI: 0.46–0.81; p = 0.001) were significant predictors. Qualitative themes revealed cultural taboos (68% avoided nutrient-dense foods due to infant harm fears), economic barriers (90.9% consumed ≤3 food groups; poverty limited access to animal source food), and healthcare gaps (although 99.6% ANC attendance, nutrition education was insufficient). In conclusion, undernutrition in Shone Town reflects a combination of cultural, healthcare, and socioeconomic factors. Interventions must integrate economic empowerment, culturally sensitive nutrition education, and healthcare services.