Prevalence of Malnutrition Among Pregnant Women Complete Project
Prevalence of Malnutrition Among Pregnant Women Complete Project
INTRODUCTION
Malnutrition affect people in the globes around 19 billion adults worldwide are
overweight while 462 million are underweight. Pregnant women’s need body and could
lead to metabolic disorders or as incase adequate a nourishing food for the fetus to
develop, well if of excessive consumption of fact as carbohydrate lead to not, the result
will lead to low birth weight pregnant women’s does not know that she need to eat a
nutritional problem almost everywhere in Africa is that of greater amount of quality food
(Adedeji, 1985).
Many families cannot afford or access enough nutrition food like fresh fruit and
vegetables, in fact, sugar and salt are cheapest and more readily available leading to a
The human body is sound hinge much like motor car, motor cars need some oil in the
engine and some water in radiation to keep in walking properly which the good raw
material is with or body is build and kept in good condition and more properly.
Food is broken down is by the digestive system into simple substances which is carried in
by the food deficiencies disease such diet should be sufficient to provide energy
low-income and developing regions. Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO)
estimates that more than 20 million newborns are born underweight annually, largely due
mortality, complications during childbirth, and adverse outcomes for the fetus, such as
In Nigeria, malnutrition is a pressing issue, with the National Demographic and Health
Specifically, in Galula Primary Health Care, Nassarawa Local Government Area, Kano
State, malnutrition among pregnant women has not been adequately studied. This
location is known to have limited access to healthcare resources, nutrition education, and
essential maternal services. As a result, pregnant women in this area may be more
among pregnant women in Galula PHC and to provide data that can inform healthcare
The aim of the study is to determine prevalence of malnutrition among pregnant women
attending Hotoro Primary Health Care Nassarawa Local Government Kano State.
1. What are the possible causes of malnutrition among pregnant women in the study
area?
2. What are the factors influencing malnutrition among pregnant women in the
study area
The study will reveals awareness level to women on the effect of malnutrition among
pregnant women; the study will assist in checking the problem at an early stage so that
Also it assist the mother to try their possible in order to avoid becoming patient of
The scope of the study is to prevalence of malnutrition among the pregnant women
attending Hotoro Primary Health Care Nassarawa Local Government Kano State.
CHAPTER TWO
2.0 INTRODUCTION
complications, and the significance of proper nutrition during pregnancy. The aim is to
provide a theoretical and empirical framework for the study and to explore scholarly
women
Summary
low-income and developing countries. The World Health Organization (WHO, 2020)
malnutrition during pregnancy is responsible for more than 800,000 newborn deaths
growth.
concern in the northern regions. Studies show that factors such as poverty, food
prevalence of maternal malnutrition in these areas (Akombi et al., 2017). In Kano State,
the rates of malnutrition among pregnant women are significantly higher than the
national average, largely due to inadequate nutrition education and poor healthcare
The causes of malnutrition among pregnant women are multifaceted and vary by region.
Socio-economic factors play a major role, particularly in low-income areas where access
to nutritious food is limited. According to Smith and Haddad (2015), poverty is one of
ability to access and afford healthy, diverse foods. In northern Nigeria, cultural and
gender norms also exacerbate the issue, as women may have limited control over
household resources, affecting their ability to meet their nutritional needs during
(2018) explain, many pregnant women in Nigeria have inadequate dietary intake due to
low awareness of proper nutrition and the unavailability of affordable nutritious foods.
In areas like Nassarawa Local Government, these issues are compounded by a lack of
women.
study by Fotso et al. (2007) revealed that women with low educational attainment are
more likely to suffer from malnutrition during pregnancy. This is often due to a lack of
knowledge about dietary requirements and the importance of adequate nutrition for
malnutrition. Women who attend antenatal clinics regularly are more likely to receive
nutrition counseling and supplements, which can significantly improve their nutritional
status (Ebadi et al., 2019). However, in rural and low-income areas such as Hotoro
Primary Health Care, pregnant women may not have access to such services, increasing
Cultural beliefs and practices also play a role. For example, in some communities in
northern Nigeria, certain foods are considered taboo during pregnancy, limiting the
variety of foods available to pregnant women. Such practices contribute to poor dietary
diversity, which is a known risk factor for malnutrition (Okeke et al., 2021).
Malnutrition during pregnancy can lead to severe complications for both the mother and
associated with low birth weight, preterm delivery, and intrauterine growth restriction.
These conditions increase the risk of infant mortality and long-term developmental
including hemorrhage, obstructed labor, and infections (Black et al., 2013). Pregnant
women who are malnourished are also more susceptible to anemia, which can lead to
fatigue, weakness, and a higher risk of maternal mortality (Ahmed et al., 2012).
Furthermore, micronutrient deficiencies, such as iron, folic acid, and vitamin A, are
during pregnancy (Lassi et al., 2013). In Kano State, studies have shown that these
deficiencies are prevalent due to inadequate dietary intake and limited access to
Adequate nutrition during pregnancy is essential for the health of both the mother and
the developing fetus. According to the WHO (2020), pregnant women require increased
caloric intake and essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, and folic acid to support fetal
growth and maternal health. Proper nutrition reduces the risk of complications, including
low birth weight, preterm birth, and congenital anomalies (Black et al., 2013).
programs that educate women on the significance of a balanced diet, appropriate weight
gain during pregnancy, and the consumption of essential vitamins and minerals.
In the study area, Hotoro Primary Health Care, raising awareness about the importance
Providing access to affordable, nutritious foods, coupled with regular antenatal visits
where women receive nutrition counseling, can significantly improve maternal health
The study on the prevalence of malnutrition among pregnant women finds grounding in
several theoretical frameworks and empirical studies that explore nutrition, maternal
Barker Hypothesis, proposed by David Barker in the 1990s, emphasizes the long-term
effects of prenatal nutrition on the health of offspring. It asserts that malnutrition during
pregnancy can lead to low birth weight and predispose the child to chronic diseases in
later life, such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. This hypothesis is relevant to the
study as it underscores the impact of maternal malnutrition on both maternal and fetal
consequences.
gestation, is strongly associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes like preterm birth,
intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and maternal morbidity . These findings align
with the Barker Hypothesis, suggesting that improving maternal nutrition may have a
profound effect on breaking the cycle of malnutrition and poor health across generations.
and societal levels. This framework highlights that malnutrition among pregnant women
For instance, food insecurity, lack of access to healthcare, education, and socio-economic
Empirical studies have shown that women in low-resource settings, particularly in rural
areas or underserved urban areas, often experience higher rates of malnutrition due to
factors like poverty, limited access to diverse foods, and poor healthcare infrastructure .
The ecological model demonstrates that addressing malnutrition requires a holistic
conditions.
health. According to this theory, basic physiological needs, such as nutrition, must be met
before an individual can achieve higher levels of well-being, such as safety and health.
For pregnant women, the lack of adequate nutrition can hinder not only their physical
health but also their emotional and psychological well-being, thereby impacting
pregnancy outcomes.
Studies have found that pregnant women with poor nutritional intake are more prone to
mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, which further complicates
pregnancy outcomes . In this context, meeting the nutritional needs of pregnant women is
essential for their overall health and the health of their unborn child.
(SDH) theory emphasizes how societal and economic factors shape individual and
population health outcomes. Factors like education, income, social support, and access to
healthcare services can directly influence a woman’s nutritional status during pregnancy.
Pregnant women with low socio-economic status are more likely to experience food
insecurity, lack of access to quality healthcare, and limited nutrition education, leading to
5. Human Capital Theory: The human capital theory posits that investing in human
potential, particularly through education and health, leads to greater productivity and
pregnant women is a critical form of investment in the human capital of both the mother
and the child. Adequate maternal nutrition improves pregnancy outcomes, reduces
healthcare costs, and promotes healthier offspring who can contribute to the economy
later in life.
Studies confirm that proper nutrition during pregnancy leads to reduced maternal and
neonatal mortality, fewer birth complications, and improved long-term health outcomes
for children . This theory supports the notion that improving maternal nutrition is not
only an immediate health intervention but also a long-term investment in societal well-
being.
2.7 SUMMARY
The literature reviewed highlights the critical issue of malnutrition among pregnant
underscoring the need for effective nutrition interventions. The empirical framework for
variety of theories that emphasize the biological, social, and economic determinants of
frameworks highlight the multifaceted nature of malnutrition and provide insight into
how holistic interventions can improve maternal and fetal health outcomes.
This study will build on the existing body of knowledge by examining the prevalence
and causes of malnutrition among pregnant women in Hotoro Primary Health Care,
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter contains area of the study, research design, research population, sample and
sampling techniques, instrument for data collection, validity and reliability administration
The area of this study is Hotoro Primary Health Care Nassarawa Local Government
Kano State.
Historical background: brief history of the study area: Hotoro Primary Health Care
Nassarawa Local Government Kano State.
The hotoro primary health care was established in the year 2003 by Alhaji Kabiru
Yahaya, Hotoro primary health care is about a kilometers drive to the emir’s palace in
Kano city Salma Alhassan was the first person that visited to the facility to book for an
antenatal appointment. The primary health care has different facility like, casuality,
antenatal care, laboratory, where samples are taken. OPD i.e. consulting room,
maternity, family planning unit, labor room, pharmacy and also ward. Hajiya Aisha
Muhammad was the in charge of the primary health care. And different staff in the
facilities, Sir Abubakar was the assistance in charge of the primary health care. We have
almost 600 pregnant women that are suffering from malnutrition manifests itself as a
function of many and complex factors that affect the national status it’s directly linked to
inadequacy diet.
3.3 RESEARCH DESIGN
Descriptive survey design will be forth study. Crust (19960) defines descriptive survey
designed as the arrangement of the condition for collecting and analysis of data in
manner that aim to combine relevant purpose in the economy in procedure the research
design. Descriptive research involved the study arrived at collecting and describes in
search systematic manner, this research is only interested in describing the effect of
Hastl and Daniel (2007) define population as group of people which live together in a
given geographical area or location. The target population of this study consists of all
The sample of (15) respondents was used for this study. Schelezssel (1999) define
sample and sampling technique as the small subject of the population which has been
respondent for these study is systematic sampling in which every person has an equal
chance to be choosen as a respondent out of population in the study area, the researcher
population.
The formula used for selecting the sampling size was
To ensure that the instrument where reliable (90) copies of the drafted question, where
taken outside the study area of consistency, in which the co-relation was recorded.
The instrument will be administered to the respondent with the help of research assistant
The method adopted for this research is simple frequency percentage to analyze the data.
The data collected from the field will be presented in tabula form and they will be
analyzed with the corresponding percentages.
CHAPTER FOUR
4.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter contains data presentation, analysis, interpretation and discussion of the
raw data collected from the field. 90 questionnaire where distributed to the target people
retrieved.
SECTION A
18 – 20 years 10 12.5%
21 – 40 years 58 72.5%
41 above 12 15%
Total 80 100%
The tabular form shows that 10 (12.5%) respondents were Within the age of 18 – 20
years, 58 (72.5%) respondent were Within the age of 21 – 40 years 12 (15%) respondent
were Within the age of 40.these indicate that the majorty respondent are within the age of
21_40.
TABLE 4.2 EDUCATIONAL LEVEL OF THE RESPONDENT
Level Respondent Percentage
Primary 6 7.5%
Secondary 59 73.75%
Tertiary 15 18.75%
Total 80 100%
The tabula form shows that 6 (7.5%) respondent attended only primary, 59 (73.75%)
respondent attended secondary and 15 (18.75%) of the respondent were qualified with
tertiary level.
Student 15 18.15%
Trader 45 56.25%
Total 80 100
The tabula form shows that 15 (18.95%) of the respondent were student, 45 (56.25%)
Islam 55 68.7
5%
Christianity 20
25%
Others 5 6.2
5%
Total 80
100
SOURCE: AUTHOR’S FIELD WORK (2024)
The tabula form above shows that the religion distribution of the respondent were Islam
Married 40 50%
Divorced 22 27.5%
Widowed 18 22.5%
Total 80 100
The tabula form shows that 40 (50%) of the respondent were married, 22 (27.5%) of the
Hausa 30 37.5%
Fulani 26 32%
Yoruba 16 20%
Others 8 10%
Total 80 100
True 74 92.5%
False 6 7.5%
Total 80 100
Table 4.7 show that poverty is one of the major causes of malnutrition to pregnant
women 74(92.5%) respondent they said true while the 6(7.5%) said false
TABLE 4.8 CAN HIGH CARBOHYDRATES CONSUMPTION CAUSE
MALNUTRITION AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN?
Option. Respondents. Percentage
True. 77 96.25.
False. 3. 3.75%
Table 4.8 show that high CARBOHYDRATES consumption can cause malnutrition
True 80 100%
False 0 0%
Total 80 100
Table 4.9 shows that insufficient food intake lead to malnutrition among pregnant women
True 72 90%
False 8 10%
Total 80 100
Table 4.10 show that large family size and preventable infection influent malnutrition
among pregnant women 12(90%) respondent said true while the 8(10)%
True 68 85%
False 12 15%
Total
Table 4.11 family instability lead to malnutrition among pregnant women 68 (85%) of the
respondent said true while the 12 (15%) of the respondent said false
TABLE 4.12 POOR ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION IS ONE OF THE
FACTORS THAT LEAD TO
True 79 98.75%
False 1 1.25%
Total 80 100
Table 4.12 shows that poor environmental sanitation is one of the factors that lead to
malnutrition among pregnant women 79 (98.75%) respondent said that is true while the 1
WOMEN
Option Respondent Percentage
True 77 96.25%
False 3 3.75%
Total 80 100
Table 4.13 shows that miscarriage is one of the complications of malnutrition among
pregnant women 77 (96.25%) respondent said that it’s true while 3 (3.75%) respondent
True 78 91.5%
False 2 2.5%
Total 80 100
Table 4.14 shows that malnutrition among pregnant women weak immunity 78 (91.5%)
respondent said that it’s true while 2 (2.5%) respondent said that its false
PREGNANCY
Option Respondent Percentage
True 80 100%
False 0 0%
Total 80 100
Table 4.15 malnutrition among pregnant women lead to fetal death during pregnancy
False. 1. 1.25%
79(98.75%)respondent said that is true while 1(1.25%) respondent said that is false.
Pregnant women suffer as a result of malnutrition because it affect the immunity system
of a pregnant women and lead to fetal death during pregnancy. However malnutrition
miscarriages and fetal death during pregnancy, pre-term delivery and maternal
Based on the findings, it has been observed that majority of the respondent have
pregnant women as a result of health education during antenatal visit and only few of
them lack the knowledge which indicate that few of the women do not attend antenatal
clinic.
However the level of awareness of the people of Hotoro primary health care
in the study and only few were not aware this has to do with education status because
community with higher educational background tend to know more about health related
issue s.Also majority of the respondent were aware for treatment of malnutrition, and
how to prevent and take good balance diet to pregnant women, second and third trimeter
Also majority of the respondent were aware for treatment of malnutrition, and
how the prevent and take good balance diet to the pregnant women, second and third
5.1 INTRODUCTION
The study is design on the prevalence of malnutrition among pregnant women attending
Hotoro Primary Health Care Nassarawa Local Government Kano State. Four (4)
objectives were set off which include: to determine the factors influencing malnutrition
among pregnant women in the study, to ascertain the possible causes of malnutrition
among pregnant women in the study area, to identify the complication associated with
malnutrition among pregnant women and also to express proper enlightenment on the
significance of nutrition to pregnant women in the study area. Literature was extensively
reviewed based on the topic under study. The research designed adopted for the study is
90 representing 10% of the total population under study ninety (90) questionnaires
were distributed in the target population in which only (80) questionnaires were reviewed
why (10) according to the study were not reviewed. It was identified that preventing plays
a significant role in the process malnutrition to pregnant women also cultural and
inadequate proper intake of balance diet also play a vital role that cause malnutrition to
pregnant women.
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5.3 CONCLUSION
Based on the findings from this research it can deducted that pregnant women in the
study cause miscarriage, also weak immunity and fetal death during pregnancy that can
result to complication this was link to the present situation in the locality and there is
5.4 RECOMMENDATION
Pregnant women ensure that they consider adding supplement and encourage
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REFERENCE
Adeye g. 1981- Refuse Disposal in towns and cities. A challenges health for all years
Barker, D. J. (1990). "The fetal and infant origins of adult disease." BMJ, 301(6761),
1111.
Bhutta, Z. A., et al. (2008). "Maternal and child undernutrition: global and regional
exposures and health consequences." The Lancet, 371(9608), 243-260.
Victora, C. G., et al. (2008). "Maternal and child undernutrition: consequences for adult
health and human capital." The Lancet, 371(9609), 340-357.
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APPENDIX
Technology,
Date: ........................................................
ACADEMIC QUESTIONNAIRE
Dear Respondent.
The researcher is a final year student of the above named institution a research on the
topic “Malnutrition among pregnant women at Hotoro Primary Health Care Galula
In this regard you are requested to give information to the best of your knowledge. All
information will be treated confidentially for the purpose of this study Thanks
Yours faithfully
(Researcher)
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SECTION A: BIO DATA
a) True [ ] b) False [ ]
a) True [ ] b) False [ ]
a) True [ ] b) False [ ]
4. Large family size and Preventable Infection Influent malnutrition among Pregnant
women,
a) True [ ] b) False [ ]
a) True [ ] b) False [ ]
6. Poor environmental Sanitation is one of The factors that lead to malnutrition among
Pregnant Women.
a) True [ ] b) False [ ]
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7. Miscarriage Is one of the Complications of malnutrition among Pregnant women.
a) True [ ] b) False [ ]
a) True [ ] b) False [ ]
a) True [ ] b) False [ ]
32