Determinants of Underweight Children: A Cross-sectional Study in Enset-based Systems of Sidama Regional State, Ethiopia

Abstract

Undernutrition is a significant public problem in Ethiopia. The country has made some progress in reducing malnutrition rates over the past decade, but the problem remains acute, particularly in rural areas where most of the population resides. The Sidama region of Ethiopia is one of the areas with a high prevalence of malnutrition, with underweight children being a particular concern. The region is characterized by enset cultivation, a starchy plant with high nutritional value. Despite the potential benefits of enset-based diets, undernutrition remains a significant problem in the region, suggesting that other factors beyond food availability and quality may contribute. Therefore, the study investigated the determinants of underweight children in the enset-based system of Sidama Regional State, Ethiopia. The study employs a cross-sectional research design, and data were collected from 620 households using a survey questionnaire. Chi-square and binary logistic regression analyses were used to analyze the data. Various factors influence the weight of a child. Among them are the mother's age, educational background, access to clean drinking water, the time interval between successive births, the frequency of antenatal visits, and the mother's hand-washing practices. Moreover, the age of younger siblings and the household's level of wealth, measured by an asset index, also play a significant role in determining a child's weight. However, certain factors can negatively impact a child's weight, including the total number of individuals living in the household, the incidence of diarrhea in the child, and the child's age. Considering these factors when evaluating a child's weight is essential, and interventions should be designed accordingly to address them. The study's findings offer stakeholders and decision-makers insightful information to develop effective interventions to address the issue of underweight children in the study area.