Browsing by Author "Chege, Peter"

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    Determinants of fortified food consumption among children aged 6-23 months in Isiolo County, Kenya
    (International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health, 2025-05-21) Mkungo, Emily C.; Chege, Peter; Munga, Judith
    Background: Micronutrient deficiencies pose a significant public health challenge among young children in Kenya, particularly in arid regions like Isiolo County. Fortified foods are a cost-effective intervention, yet their consumption remains low. This study examines the role of socio-economic status, availability, and caregiver knowledge in fortified food consumption. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Oldonyiro and Ngaremara wards, Isiolo County, from June to August 2022, with 272 caregiver-child pairs. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. Logistic regression analyzed associations between socio-economic status, availability, caregiver knowledge, and fortified food consumption at p<0.05. Results: Non-fortified maize flour (100%) and vegetable oil (96.3%) were consumed daily, while fortified versions were consumed twice weekly by 36% and 47% of children, respectively. Higher socio-economic status (OR=1.729, p=0.0034), better caregiver knowledge (OR=1.227, p=0.0089), and greater availability (OR=1.311, p=0.015) significantly increased fortified food consumption. Only 20.2% of caregivers were knowledgeable about fortification, and fortified foods were less available in rural areas. Conclusions: Socio-economic status, caregiver knowledge, and availability are critical drivers of fortified food consumption. Public health interventions should prioritize awareness campaigns, improve market access, and address economic barriers to enhance uptake