A Study to Evaluate the Knowledge among Mothers of Children Under-Five Regarding the Prevalence of Nutritional Deficiencies at a Selected Balwadi Centre

Abstract

Maternal awareness of nutritional deficiencies is sometimes variable, with various studies indicating a mix of moderate comprehension and significant information gaps, particularly in developing regions. Mothers may have a basic awareness of child nutrition, although they frequently lack in-depth information about identifying and managing specific micronutrient deficiencies, such as iron, iodine, and Vitamin A, which can negatively affect maternal and child health. The study aimed to assess the awareness of nutritional deficit prevalence among moms with less than five children. This study employs an evaluative quantitative technique to analyse the knowledge and practices related to nutritional deficiencies among mothers of fewer than five children. The target population for this study comprises children under five years of age with nutritional deficiencies and their mothers at selected Balawadi centres in Gudur. The target population for this study comprises children under five years of age with nutritional deficiencies and mothers of fewer than five children at the designated Balawadi Centre in Gudur. The sample for this study consists of mothers with less than five children at the designated balawadi centre in Gudur. This study employs a simple random sampling technique. This study demonstrated the assessment of knowledge among less than five moms of children concerning the occurrence of nutritional deficit. The research was carried out at the Balawadi Centre in Gudur. The data indicates that, concerning maternal knowledge levels, 13 (26%) exhibit weak knowledge, 29 (58%) possess moderate knowledge, and 8 (16%) demonstrate strong knowledge. The study found that the majority of mothers possess an inadequate understanding of dietary deficiencies. Research often reveals that a significant number of mothers have limited or inadequate knowledge regarding the specific, long-term effects of deficiencies, such as anaemia, on baby development.