Perception of childhood anaemia among mothers in Kumasi: a quantitative approach

Italian Journal of Pediatrics

Justice Ofori-Amoah¹  Enoch Acheampong²  Reindolf Anokye²  Wisdom Kwadwo Mprah²  Anthony Kwaku Edusei³  Vida Maame Kissiwaa Amoah⁴  Vincent Ekow Arkorful⁵ 

[1] Asokore Mampong Municipal Directorate of Health Services;Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation Studies, Department of Health Promotion, Education and Disability, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology;Department of Community Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology;Department of Nursing, Garden City University College;University for Development Studies;

关键词: Perception;    Anemia;    Mothers;    Children under 5 years;   

DOI  :  10.1186/s13052-018-0588-4

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Abstract Background Anaemia is the world’s second cause of disability and it affects over half of pre-school children in developing countries and at least 30–40% in industrial countries. In poorer malaria-endemic countries, anemia is one of the commonest preventable causes of death in children under 5 years. This study sought to determine the perceived causes, signs and symptoms as well prevention of childhood anaemia among mothers of children under 5 years in Kumasi, Ghana. Methods A descriptive hospital-based cross-sectional study design with a sample of 228 patients attending the University Hospital, KNUST was used. A simple random sampling technique was applied in sampling and a structured questionnaire was used to collect data which was analyzed using SPSS statistical tools. Results The study found that anemia was mostly perceived to be caused by poor feeding practices (43%) and fever (37%). The signs and symptoms mentioned mostly were pale conjunctiva (47%) and pale palm (44%). It was suggested that it could be prevented by giving adequate nutrition (23%), regular deworming (19%) as well as exclusive breastfeeding (25%). Mothers education and the number of children were found to be associated with the perception regarding anaemia as respondents who had completed SHS/A level were 5.14 times likely to have a higher knowledge score on Anaemia (AOR = 5.14; 95% CI; 1.01–21.8). Also, mothers who had 5 to 6 children were 1.65 times likely to have higher knowledge score on Anaemia (AOR = 1.65; 95% CI; 0.02–2.32). Conclusion Previous experience with Anaemia and higher educational level results in better understanding of Anaemia. Therefore, extensive health education on anemia should be undertaken by the hospital authorities in collaboration with the Ministry of Health to improve knowledge of Anaemia.

【 授权许可】

Unknown