Background Undernutrition continues to be a major concern among Sri Lankan children under the age of 2 years, despite the country’s good maternal and child health indicators. The first 1000 days of life are crucial for proper growth and neurological development, and failing to meet nutritional demands during this time can lead to long-term consequences. While the economic crisis has worsened household food insecurity, there is very limited information on how this has affected complementary feeding (CF), particularly during childhood illness, when specific nutritional interventions may be able to reverse their growth faltering. Objective This study assessed the prevalence of undernutrition and the factors contributing to it among infants and young children attending a tertiary care centre. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at Colombo South Teaching Hospital (CSTH) involving 246 children aged 6–24 months. Anthropometric measurements were used to evaluate nutritional status, while CF practices and socio-demographic variables were assessed via an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and chi-square testing were used for data analysis. Results Among those studied, 14.6% were underweight, 18.3% were stunted, and 24.8% had wasting. Both stunting and wasting were significantly associated with poor maternal education (p<0.05) and lower household income (p<0.01). Inadequate CF, particularly low quantity, was a major contributor, increasing the odds of underweight (Odds Ratio/OR=3.2), stunting (OR=4.5), and wasting (OR=2.1). Although meal frequency and food consistency were mostly appropriate, the diversity guidelines were met in only 76.8% of cases. Offering extra meals was seen in 78% during illness, but few provided energy-dense (21%) or favourite foods (43%). Conclusion While frequency was generally adequate among 6–24-month-old children attending the paediatric clinic or ward at CSTH, shortcomings remained in the quantity of food, dietary diversity, and feeding during illness. Interventions, particularly maternal education for low-income families, are important for improving nutrition in this age group.
Background The development of nutritionally enriched composite flours has gained increasing attention due to the rising prevalence of micronutrient malnutrition and diet-related health disorders. Composite flours prepared from cereals, pulses, and nutrient-rich plant ingredients can enhance the nutritional quality of staple foods while promoting the use of locally available resources. Objective The present study aimed to develop and evaluate a nutritionally enhanced composite flour using locally available cereals, pulses and plant-based ingredients, and to assess its functional, nutritional, and sensory characteristics. Methods Traditional processing methods, including soaking, sprouting, drying, and milling, were used to improve nutrient bioavailability and functional properties. Three composite flour formulations were prepared using wheat, amaranth seeds, pearl millet, green gram, amaranth leaves, and wheatgrass powder in varying proportions: T₁ (40:20:10:25:4:1), T₂ (40:25:15:15:3:2), and T₃ (40:10:25:20:2:3). Value-added products such as chapati, cookies, and energy balls were developed and evaluated by a semi-trained sensory panel using a 9-point hedonic scale. Results Among the formulations, T₂ achieved the highest sensory acceptability across all products. Functional analysis showed water absorption capacity of 77%, oil absorption capacity of 77.9%, swelling capacity of 60%, foam capacity of 30% and bulk density of 0.21 g/mL. Nutritional analysis revealed carbohydrate content of 70 g/100 g, protein 17 g/100 g, crude fiber 5.8 g/100 g, calcium 191 mg/100 g, iron 6.55 mg/100 g and energy value of 319 kcal/100 g, indicating a nutrient-rich formulation. Conclusions The developed composite flour demonstrated good functional, nutritional and sensory properties, highlighting its potential as a nutritious and functional ingredient for value-added food products and as a sustainable strategy to address micronutrient deficiencies and malnutrition.
Background Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health threat, with sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) disproportionately affected. In 2021, SSA recorded about 923,000 AMR-associated and 209,000 AMR-attributable deaths. Key drivers include antibiotic misuse, weak water/sanitation/hygiene (WASH) systems, poor infection prevention and control (IPC), limited diagnostics, and fragile health systems. Nutrition remains an underexplored but potentially critical lever for AMR mitigation. Objective This perspective examines how improved nutrition could reduce AMR burden in SSA by strengthening host defenses, lowering infection risk, and decreasing unnecessary antibiotic use. Methods We conducted a comprehensive literature search across PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, DOAJ, Semantic Scholar, and African Journals Online. Using MeSH and free-text terms for “nutrition”, “malnutrition”, and “antimicrobial resistance” with Boolean operators, we identified original studies and reviews linking between malnutrition and AMR in SSA. Results Malnutrition impairs immunity, disrupts gut barrier function, and alters the gut microbiome, increasing susceptibility to infection and colonization by multidrug-resistant organisms. Malnourished children are routinely prescribed antibiotics, further driving resistance. Conversely, diets rich in fiber, micronutrients, and fermented foods - common in traditional African diets - support a healthy microbiome, enhance colonization resistance, and reduce AMR gene carriage. Micronutrients such as zinc, iron, vitamin A, and vitamin D are vital for immune function and barrier integrity. To mitigate AMR through nutrition, promoting nutrient-dense, locally available foods and fermented products to strengthen immunity and gut health; advancing food fortification, dietary diversification, and food safety to reduce infection burden; scaling nutrition-sensitive and nutrition-specific interventions for high-risk groups, including malnourished children; and strengthening behavior change communication may proof effective. Conclusion Optimizing nutrition offers a practical, low-cost approach to lowering infection rates and antibiotic use in SSA. Policymakers and partners should adopt a multi-sectoral approach that embeds nutrition in AMR strategies, leverages traditional diets, and strengthens existing nutrition initiatives to reduce AMR and advance Sustainable Development Goals.
Background Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres have been recognised as an important setting to improve children’s dietary intake and eating habits. ECD centres can provide a large proportion of their daily dietary requirements during attendance. Objective The present study aimed to evaluate the meal provisioning and describe the food handling practices of food handlers at registered ECD centres in Johannesburg, South Africa. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study with an analytical component was conducted among 48 participants from 22 registered ECD centres, each visited for one day. ECD managers completed a self-administered questionnaire on demographics and perceived barriers to providing healthy food, while food handlers completed an interviewer-administered version. An observational checklist was used to assess the food provisioning environment. Dietary diversity scores (DDS) of meals served were calculated using the FAO 13-food group DDS questionnaire. Results All ECD centres could provide a menu, but 31% did not adhere to the menu. At least two meals/snacks were served, which had a mean DDS of 3.6 (SD 1.00). Meals consisted mainly of starch (100%) and dairy products (73%). Only 41% of ECD centres had trained their staff on correct handwashing procedures. There was no significant difference between the practices in formal and informal ECD centres (p>0.05). The barriers to optimal nutrition included lack of external funders (68%), lack of government support (59%), tedious registration process (55%), and loadshedding (planned power outages) (52%). Conclusion Optimising child nutrition is key to reducing malnutrition, as stunting and undernutrition have major individual and societal impacts. Ongoing training and monitoring are needed to support ECD practitioners in applying nutrition guidelines, ensuring safe food handling, and providing nutritious meals that promote healthy growth and development.
Background Chronic kidney disease poses an increasing public health challenge worldwide, with low- and middle-income countries facing a disproportionate burden of morbidity and mortality due to limited access to early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment. Patients on maintenance haemodialysis are especially vulnerable to undernutrition because of metabolic disturbances, chronic inflammation, dietary restrictions, and socioeconomic difficulties. In Tanzania, routine nutritional assessment among chronic kidney disease patients remains inconsistent, and local evidence on the prevalence of undernutrition using clearly defined and standardised indicators is limited. Objective This study assessed the nutritional status of patients undergoing haemodialysis at Muhimbili National Hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Methods A hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out from March to April 2025 among 149 adult patients undergoing haemodialysis. Nutritional status was evaluated through anthropometric measurements, including body mass index and mid-upper arm circumference, as well as biochemical markers such as albumin, haemoglobin, serum creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen. Both anthropometric and biochemical parameters were systematically analysed to determine the patient’s nutritional status. Statistical significance was considered at a p-value of less than 0.05. Results are presented as adjusted odds ratios with corresponding 95% confidence intervals. Results Underweight was observed in 45.6% of patients, and protein-energy wasting in 58.4% of patients. Biochemical results showed low mean haemoglobin at 8.9 ± 2.19 g/dl and albumin at 3.6 ± 0.40 g/dl, elevated creatinine at 698.5 ± 439.31, cholesterol at 183.6 ± 87.73 mmol/l, potassium at 4.9 ± 0.66 mmol/l, and markedly low calcium at 1.3 ± 0.61 mmol/l. Conclusions These findings emphasise the importance of regular nutritional screening and the incorporation of nutrition services into kidney care at Muhimbili National Hospital and similar settings. Tackling undernutrition among patients with chronic kidney disease on haemodialysis is crucial for enhancing clinical outcomes, quality of life, and equity in chronic disease management.
Background The Home-Grown School Feeding Programme (HGSFP) in Nigeria remains one of the country’s most ambitious social investment initiatives, aimed at reducing hunger, improving school attendance, and promoting rural economic growth. Objective This narrative review examines the programme's trends, regional variations, and implementation challenges across Nigeria. Methods A qualitative, non-systematic narrative review synthesised evidence from nine empirical peer-reviewed studies and three policy/technical documents (including relevant government/institutional reports) to summarise programme outcomes, nutritional evidence, and implementation gaps. Results States such as Osun, Ogun, Kaduna, Kano, and Enugu continue to implement HGSFP programmes with varying degrees of coverage and efficiency, while others, including Oyo (suspended since 2022), Kebbi, Rivers, Cross River, and Nasarawa have discontinued or suspended implementation due to inadequate funding, weak political will, or logistical breakdowns. Across regions, the programme has shown measurable progress in school enrolment and attendance, modest improvements in pupils' nutrition, and enhanced participation of smallholder farmers in local food supply chains. Conclusion Challenges persist, particularly concerning funding irregularities, poor monitoring, corruption, and inequitable coverage. In addition, ethical and governance lapses have raised concerns about transparency and accountability in procurement and meal quality. Overall, the review reveals a mixed but instructive trajectory. While Nigeria’s HGSFP contributes to educational and agricultural development, its sustainability depends on consistent financing, state–federal coordination, and robust monitoring mechanisms. Further research should quantify nutritional outcomes nationally and explore policy strategies for ensuring equitable access and ethical governance of the programme.
Background There is an increasing prevalence of metabolic syndrome among adolescents globally. In Nigeria, early detection may be a promising and preventive measure in nutrition sciences. Objectives This study assesses the association between anthropometric characteristics and prevalence of metabolic syndrome among adolescents in Gusau urban area, Zamfara State. Methods The study is cross-sectional in design, where 400 respondents within 10-19 years were selected from 6 private and 5 public secondary schools in Gusau Urban Area, Zamfara State using stratified proportionate and random sampling techniques. Anthropometry was conducted using standard instruments and methods. BMI-for-age was calculated using WHO AnthroPlus. Biochemical parameters of Metabolic syndrome (MetS) were measured: blood pressure, fasting blood sugar (FBS), total cholesterol (TCH), triglycerides (TRIG), high-density lipoproteins (HDL), and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) were measured using standard methods. Results Mean MetS components were within the normal range. There was severe stunting of 19.4% and 6.8% among males and females of 15-19 years respectively. The overall prevalence of MetS was 3.0%. Low HDL was identified as the most common MetS components and was particularly high among females, highlighting the importance of monitoring these components in adolescent health assessments. Conclusion In conclusion, this paper has provided baseline prevalence data on MetS among adolescents in an underserved urban area in Nigeria. Since some adolescents are malnourished, diet and lifestyle as modifiable factors should be the pivot for nutrition education intervention for in-school adolescents.
▪ High salt consumption remains a major global public health threat. ▪ Salt Awareness Week, 2026 was marked by the release of the second edition of its “SHAKE the salt habit“ package. ▪ SHAKE the Salt Habit” technical package emphasizes government led mandatory policy frameworks such as food reformulation targets, front-of pack labelling, marketing restrictions for children, and taxes on unhealthy foods. ▪ This WHO package includes guidance on countering common industry
Background Strong primary health care (PHC) systems are essential for delivering nutrition interventions and achieving global nutrition targets, particularly in low- and middle-income countries facing high malnutrition burdens. Objectives This study assessed the nutrition service capacity PHC facilities in three urban local government areas (LGAs) of Ibadan, Nigeria. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023 across 40 public PHC facilities in the Ibadan North, Ibadan North-West, and Ibadan South-East LGAs. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire (based on the Uganda Nutrition Service Delivery Assessment Tool), direct observation, and interviews with Officers-in-Charge. Nutrition service capacity was evaluated across 11 domains and categorised as poor, fair, good, or excellent based on pre-defined criteria. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics on SPSS 26.0. Results Most (85.0%) facilities offered nutrition services, with strong performance in basic anthropometric assessments for children under five: weight (100.0%), MUAC (97.5%), height (85.0%) and preventive interventions: vitamin A supplementation (97.5%), and iron-folic acid (97.5%) for pregnant women. Significant gaps existed: only 7.5% had a qualified nutritionist/dietitian; human resource capacity was poor in 70.0% of facilities; clinical management (counselling, referral, follow-up) was limited; no facility provided therapeutic or supplementary feeding; quality improvement systems were poor in 100.0%; and data use for decision-making was weak (only 12.5% analysed/displayed nutrition data). Overall, 75% of the facilities showed good service provision but limited readiness in infrastructure, equipment, and systems. Conclusion Despite the integration of preventive nutrition services, PHC facilities in urban Ibadan demonstrate gaps in comprehensive nutrition care. Targeted investments in workforce hiring and training, equipment, quality improvement and data systems are needed to strengthen nutrition service delivery.
Background Obesity and abnormal fat distribution among nurses are increasingly recognized, particularly those exposed to shift work and occupational stress. Body mass index (BMI) may underestimate adiposity-related risk in Asian populations. Objectives To determine the prevalence of obesity using body composition indicators and to examine demographic, occupational, and lifestyle-related factors associated with adiposity among hospital nurses at a major hospital in Vietnam. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 154 nurses at a tertiary hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Demographic, occupational, and lifestyle data were collected using structured questionnaires. Body composition was assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis (InBody 270). Obesity was defined as BMI ≥25 kg/m², elevated body fat percentage (BFP; >25% for men and >35% for women), and high visceral fat level (VFL ≥10). Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with adiposity indicators. Results Most (72%) of the sample were female. The prevalence of obesity was 35.7% by BMI criteria, 54.5% by elevated BFP, and 40.9% by high VFL, suggesting that BMI alone may underestimate adiposity-related risk in this population. Male nurses had significantly higher odds of BMI-defined obesity (OR = 6.77; 95% CI: 3.12–14.69) and elevated BFP (OR = 2.44; 95% CI: 1.15–5.16) compared with female nurses. Nurses aged 30–44 years had higher odds of elevated VFL than those aged <30 years (OR = 2.12; 95% CI: 1.02–4.39). Body fat percentage and trunk fat percentage differed significantly across age groups, whereas BMI did not. Conclusion Obesity and central adiposity were common among hospital nurses and were more frequently identified using body composition indicators than BMI alone. However, the findings should be interpreted with caution because important lifestyle- and circadian-related factors were not directly assessed. Further longitudinal studies incorporating dietary intake, sleep quality, and detailed shift-work characteristics are needed to better clarify determinants of adiposity among healthcare workers in Vietnam.
Background There is a rise in demand for ready-to-eat healthy snacks, prompting scientific innovation in developing snacks made from balanced, nutrient-rich plant materials with no adverse health effects. Objective The aim of the study was to examine the nutrient content, sensory properties, and glycaemic response (GR) -- (glycaemic index (GI) and glycaemic load (GL)) -- of biscuits made from various blends of tigernut flour (TNF) and semi-ripe plantain flour (PF). Methods This was an experimental study involving processing of plantain and tigernuts into flours and formulations of biscuits containing varying ratios of PF and TNF (50:50, 100:0, and 0:100) with whole wheat biscuit used as control; measurement of the proximate content of the biscuits; a 30-panelist sensory evaluation; and GI and GL test among 15 apparently healthy participants. The area under the curve for the test and reference foods was calculated using the trapezoidal rule. ANOVA (p ˂ 0.05) was used to express the statistical differences between the means obtained for the three types of biscuit samples analysed. Results Moisture content ranged from 5.32% ± 0.01% to 11.27% ± 0.02% and carbohydrate from 53.05% ± 0.09% to 59.43% ± 0.1%. Biscuits containing flour ratios of PF0:TNF100 showed the highest overall acceptability score, 6.40±0.25. The GI calculated was higher (50) for the control biscuit than that of the biscuits with flour ratios PF50:TNF50 and PF0:TNF100 (34 and 16, respectively). The GL was 33 for the control biscuit, 15 for PF50:TNF50 and 6 for PF0:TNF100. Conclusion Biscuits made with PF and TNF had lower GI and GL than the control and were generally accepted by the panellists. Hence, using one or both types of flour could be an effective vehicle for glycaemic control among people who consumed substantial amounts of biscuits Keywords: plantain flour,
▪ Public health nutrition now integrates food systems, equity, and policy. ▪ Life-course nutrition remains central to improving population health. ▪ Stronger health systems are vital for effective nutrition interventions. ▪ Sustainable diets require innovation supported by sound public policies. ▪ Evidence must drive nutrition action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
Background Athletes require adequate dietary diversity, healthy lifestyle behaviours, and appropriate hydration to support performance, recovery, and long-term health. However, local evidence on these practices among Nigerian athletes remains limited. Objective To assess dietary diversity, lifestyle and hydration practices, and related factors among athletes in Lagos State, Nigeria. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 athletes recruited from five stadia in Lagos State. Data were collected using a pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire covering socio-demographics, lifestyle and hydration habits, and a single 24-hour recall to compute the FAO dietary diversity score (DDS) across nine food groups. Anthropometric measurements were taken and BMI calculated. Data were analysed in SPSS v20 using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests (p<0.05). Results Participants were predominantly male (78.0%) and mostly aged 18–24 years. The mean DDS was 5.0 ± 1.11. Dietary diversity was largely medium (64.5%), with 10.0% low and 23.3% high. All respondents consumed starchy staples (100%); consumption of organ meat was rare (2.0%). Most athletes reported snacking between meals (78.0%), and breakfast was the most commonly skipped meal (61.3%). Most drank water between meals (84.7%) and during physical activity (72.0%), though many lacked knowledge of recommended daily water intake (58.7%). Dietary diversity was significantly associated with alcohol consumption and snacking between meals, whereas meal skipping was not. Nearly half of the female athletes had a moderate (44%) or high (6%) risk of overweight based on waist circumference. Conclusion Age was positively associated with BMI (p=0.027). Athletes in Lagos showed generally moderate dietary diversity and mixed lifestyle/hydration practices, with clear behavioural links to dietary diversity.
Background Maternal capabilities during pregnancy are crucial during the first 1,000 days of a child's life, which is from conception to their second birthdays. Objective The purpose of the present study was to assess the maternal capabilities, knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women towards infant nutrition in the first 1,000 days of life in Isuikwuato Local Government Area (LGA), Abia State, Nigeria. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among a sample of 186 pregnant women aged 15–49 years residing in the more easily accessible areas of Isuikwuato LGA. Data were collected using a semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire adapted from the WHO/UNICEF infant and young child feeding assessment tools. Information obtained included socio-demographic characteristics, maternal capabilities, knowledge, and attitudes toward infant nutrition. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations, while Pearson correlation analysis was used to determine associations between variables. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results Most participants had a tertiary education (83.9%) and high income (83.3% had ≥N71,000). A majority had high decision-making autonomy (73.1%), low social support (91.9%), and low self-efficacy (61.3%). They had good knowledge (90.3%) and positive attitudes (51.6%) towards infant nutrition. Decision-making autonomy was significantly associated with knowledge on infant nutrition (p < 0.05). Their attitude towards infant nutrition was significantly associated with social support and perceived health status. Conclusion Knowledge and attitudes toward infant feeding were satisfactory in this sample of high-income, well-educated pregnant women, despite a lack of social support.
Background: Nutrition education and dietary counselling are the de facto responses to Moderate Acute Malnutrition (MAM) at Nigerian primary health care (PHC) facilities where supplementary food is unavailable. Its efficacy as a standalone MAM intervention has not been examined in a West African randomised trial. Objectives: To document the 90-day anthropometric response of MAM-diagnosed children managed with nutrition education alone versus three food-supplemented groups across six fortnightly assessments. Methods: Seventy-two children aged 6–59 months with confirmed MAM (WHZ −3 to −2; MUAC 11.5–12.5 cm) were randomised to four arms in Ekiti State, Nigeria: Plumpy Sup RUSF (PST; n=18), maize-soybean (MSB; n=19), maize-peanut (MPN; n=18), and nutrition education only (NE; n=18). Anthropometric outcomes were measured at enrolment and six semi-monthly visits over 90 days. Recovery was defined as WHZ > −2 and MUAC > 12.5 cm. Results: No child in the NE group achieved MAM recovery at any assessment point (0/7 completers at Week 12; 0%; 95% CI: 0–41%), versus 100% recovery among all food-supplemented completers (38/38; p < 0.001). Mean WHZ improved by only +0.19 z-score units in the NE group over 90 days, compared with +1.79 to +2.46 units in food-supplemented groups (p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 4.31). Weight gain velocity was 0.20 g/kg/day in the NE group — 8.7% of the Plumpy Sup rate and one-fifth of the 1.0 g/kg/day minimum threshold. The WHZ gap widened monotonically at every visit, from 0.15 z-score units at Week 2 to 1.88 units at Week 12. Conclusions: Structured nutrition education as the sole MAM intervention produced no clinically meaningful recovery over 90 days. The effect is categorical, consistent from Week 2, and powered at >95% for the binary recovery outcome. Direct food supplementation is indispensable for MAM recovery and must be the minimum standard of care in Nigeria’s PHC system.
Background Nutrition plays a crucial role in the management of HIV/AIDS. However, there is currently limited data on the nutritional status and dietary patterns of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Nigeria. Objective This study aims to evaluate the nutritional status and dietary patterns of PLWHA who attend the antiretroviral therapy clinic at Adeoyo State Hospital, Ibadan. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 140 PLWHA. Anthropometric measurements were taken, and dietary patterns were assessed using a food frequency questionnaire. Chi-square tests and measures of association were used to analyse the relationship between dietary habits and BMI. Results The mean BMI was 24.9±4.3 kg/m², with 34.3% of participants being overweight, 7.8% obese and 9% underweight. Central obesity was prevalent, especially among women (45.7% at high risk). The dietary patterns observed included high consumption of staples such as rice (85% daily or frequent), cassava products (74.2%), and vegetables (90.7% of respondents consumed green leafy vegetables). Palm oil and sugary beverages were consumed frequently by over 80% and 56.4% of participants, respectively. No significant association was found between the dietary patterns measured and BMI. Conclusion This study reveals a tendency towards overweight and obesity in PLWHA, alongside a now less serious problem of persistent undernutrition. We found no significant association between dietary habits, food practices, and BMI. Thus, this study underscores the need for targeted nutritional interventions in HIV/AIDS care, particularly those dealing with overweight.
Abstract Dietetics services play a vital role in preventing and managing nutrition-related diseases and chronic diseases, particularly in regions burdened by both undernutrition and rising rates of Diet related non-communicable. Despite the growing need for clinical nutrition care, dietitians in Nigeria often work in under-resourced settings with limited institutional support, professional development opportunities, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Hence, this research work was to assess facilitator, identify barriers and explore dietitians’ perspective on strategies to improve service delivery The study was conducted in selected public health facilities across Southern part Nigeria with the study population consisting of registered dietitian-nutritionists and interns dietitians working in the selected health facilities. Cochran's formula was used to determine the sample size. Therefore, the design of this study employed quantitative study multi-stage sampling technique for sample of 40 respondents and data was collected using a structured questionnaire in google form. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages. Institutional support through infrastructure (77.5%) and professional training (70%) were key facilitators. Several barriers were also identified, which include inadequate tools and equipment (77.5%), limited access to training (62.5%), and low interdisciplinary collaboration (67.5%). Additionally, 80% of respondents cited limited time, staff, and funding as significant constraints. Despite these challenges, 87.5% of respondents engaged in continuous education, and 45% consistently incorporated patient feedback into service improvements. This study highlighted both promising practices and critical gaps in the delivery of dietetics services within selected health facilities in Southern Nigeria. While a significant proportion of dietitians incorporate evidence-based practices and engage in continuous education, they still face considerable systemic and operational barriers. These include inadequate tools and equipment, limited dietary supplies, poor interdisciplinary collaboration (e.g., limited understanding of dietitians’ roles, and a shortage of resources such as time, staff, and funding.
Background The prevalence of malnutrition among children in Cameroon remains high, particularly among those residing in rural areas. The present examines young children in an urban area, Kumba, in the South-West Region of Cameroon. Objective The aim of this study was to assess in a comparative manner the factors associated with malnutrition among public and private nursery school children in Kumba. Methods A cross-sectional quantitative survey design was conducted among 312 children aged 3-5 years from 6 public and private nursery schools and their caregivers. Children were selected via a multistage random sampling technique, and their weight and height were measured using the WHO Anthro software to determine levels of underweight, stunting, wasting, overweight, and the Composite Index of Anthropometric Failure (CIAF). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0 to accommodate a multistage cluster design, employing Pearson’s Chi-square tests for categorical variables, Student’s t-tests for continuous variables, and forced-entry binary logistic regression to identify significant socio-economic, demographic, and school-type determinants of malnutrition at p < 0.05. Results The overall prevalence of wasting, stunting and overweight among the children was 6.7%, 14.1% and 13.7%, respectively, with a CIAF of 19.5%. Wasting and stunting were more prevalent in public schools. Overweight prevalence was higher in private schools. Children attending public schools were 6.99 times more likely to be stunted than those attending private schools [AOR, 6.99; 95% CI, 2.24-21.86]. Home-packed lunch boxes lowered odds of wasting [AOR, 0.044; 95% CI, 0.011-0.17] and stunting [AOR, 0.085; 95% CI, 0.02-0.24]. Conclusion Children from socioeconomically advantaged backgrounds, whose families could afford private education and packing school lunch boxes, had lower risks for stunting and wasting. Overweight was less prevalent among public school children. Parents across both public and private nursery schools must be educated on essential child nutrition practices to curb malnutrition.
Background Nutritional management is vital for patients with hypertension, a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Adherence to prescribed diets is central to its management. Objective This study aims to identify factors hindering effective nutritional management of hypertension at Yaoundé Central Hospital. Methods This quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted from April 20 to May 31, 2023, involving 81 hypertensive patients aged 30 and over at the National Obesity Center and Cardiology Department. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed with IBM SPSS software, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results Out of the 81 participants, 37% demonstrated dietary adherence. Multivariate analyses identified female gender [AOR = 3.72 (95% CI: 1.75–8.20); P = 0.023], university education [AOR = 5.80 (95% CI: 2.10–16.00); P < 0.001], a monthly income exceeding 100,000 CFA francs (~US$170) [AOR = 9.80 (95% CI: 3.10–30.50); P < 0.001], regular blood pressure monitoring [AOR = 5.60 (95% CI: 2.40–13.00); P < 0.001], and engaging in physical activity [AOR = 1.90 (95% CI: 1.17–3.70); P = 0.041] as independent factors associated with dietary adherence. Conclusion The study underscores the challenges hypertensive patients face in dietary adherence, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve patient follow-up and enhance education, awareness, and access to healthy food. These insights will inform nutritional management strategies in Cameroon, aiming to reduce the prevalence of hypertension and improve patients' quality of life.
Background Stress is the body’s non-specific response to psychological and physical stimuli, which can disrupt eating habits. Stressors such as educational, social or psychological pressure significantly alter eating patterns, including Western and snack-heavy dietary patterns. Understanding the intricate relationship between stress and eating behaviours in young adults is crucial. Objective This study aimed to investigate the impact of stress on eating behaviour. The study focused on Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG-3), which emphasises health and well-being. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at Ibadat International University, Islamabad, Pakistan. The study investigated the association between perceived stress and eating behaviours among university students (N=350) using the PSS-10 and a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Results Principal Component Analysis identified three dietary patterns: 'Traditional,' 'Western,' and 'Snack-heavy.' Students with high stress showed significantly higher adherence to the 'Western' pattern (high in processed foods, sugary beverages, and fast food) and lower fruit/vegetable intake (p<0.001). Conclusion These findings underscore the need for nutrition education and stress-coping interventions in universities to support healthier dietary choices aligned with the WHO dietary guidelines. Digital platforms and AI-based personalised feedback systems could be developed to support stress management and promote healthy eating among students.
