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Browsing by Author "Waudo, Judith N."

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Anthropometric characteristics and nutritional status of older adults in the Lake Victoria Basin of East Africa: region, sex, and age differences
(MedPharm Publications, 2012) Cheserek, M.J.; Tuitoek, P.J.; Waudo, Judith N.; Msuya, J.M.; Kikafunda, J.K.
Background: Malnutrition, either as undernutrition or overnutrition, leads to detrimental alterations in body composition. The objective of this study was to investigate selected anthropometric measurements, and the nutritional status of older men and women living in the Lake Victoria Basin. This was a cross-sectional study. Setting: The setting was selected rural and urban areas of Kisumu, Jinja, and Mwanza, in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, respectively. Subjects: The subjects were older adults (227 men and 310 women) aged ≥ 60 years. Outcome measures: The outcome measures were weight, height, arm span, mid-upper-arm circumference (MUAC) and triceps skin-fold thickness (TSF). Body mass index (BMI) and arm muscle area (AMA) were computed using standard equations. Results: The results show that older adults in the three regions were significantly different (p-value < 0.05) in all anthropometric measurements, except MUAC. The women had significantly higher (p-value < 0.05) BMI, TSF, and MUAC, than the men. Negative slopes indicated a decline in all anthropometric measurements with age. Overall underweight (BMI < 0.05) than older women (24.2%), with overweight (12.5%) and obesity (6.8%) being significantly higher (p-value < 0.05) in older women. Conclusion: The findings suggest energy depletion and loss of muscle mass, with significant differences in the three regions, and in the sex and age groups. A small proportion was overweight and obese. The decline in anthropometric measurements with age indicates poor nutritional status with aging. Thus, nutrition and health interventions should be specific to regions
Anthropometric characteristics, dietary patterns and the risk of Glucose Intolerance among rural populations in the Lake Victoria Basin of Kenya
(2011-11-02) Kiplamai, Festus Kaino; Mike, K. Boit; Waudo, Judith N.
Introduction: The primary cause of increase in the prevalence of glucose intolerance in Africa is the lifestyle changes commonly known as the “nutrition transition”. Objective: To determine the effects of dietary intake and anthropometric characteristics on the glucose intolerance of two rural communities of the Lake Victoria Basin in Kenya. Methods: Data from 304 subjects (8/24, M/F with glucose intolerance; 126/146, M/F control subjects) were analyzed in a case control study. Their height, weight, hip circumference (HC), Waist Circumference (WC) Middle Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC), calf circumference (CC) and % Body Fat (BF) were measured. Diet intake was assessed using 24 hour recall and the food frequency questionnaire. Glucose intolerance (IGT + Diabetes) was assessed using the fasting blood glucose level followed by the OGTT test using 75grams of glucose. Results: The BMI (p=0.003), %BF (p=0.002), and HC (p=0.004), differed significantly among glucose intolerant and the controls. Glucose intolerant (GI) subjects were found to have a significantly (p=0.017) lower percentage of protein (12%) intake in their diets than the control (14%). The intake of Poly unsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA) also differed significantly (p=0.042) with the glucose intolerant group consuming less than the controls. There was significant differences (p=0.015) in the vegetable intake among the two groups with the controls having reported increased intake of the vegetables. Conclusions: Increasing BMI, % BF and HC independent of age and sex are risk factors for glucose intolerance. A high overall protein percent intake in the diet and an elevated PUFA intake have desirable effects in the management of blood sugar metabolism. Increased intake of vegetables was found to have protective effects against glucose intolerance. Recommendations: Individuals are strongly advised to have non-elevated BMI, %BF and HC for purposes of managing the body tolerance to glucose. Increasing the protein percentage, PUFA and vegetable intake in the diet is recommended for all age groups and in both males and females
Child obesity and fitness levels among Kenyan and Canadian children from urban and rural environments: a KIDS-CAN Research Alliance Study.
(EBSCO, 2011-06) Adamo, K. B.; Sheel, A. W.; Onywera, V.O.; Waudo, Judith N.; Boit, Michael K.; Tremblay, M. S.
Objective. This study was designed to gather anthropometric and fitness-related data on Kenyan children living in urban (UKEN) and rural (RKEN) environments and to compare them with previous data collected on Canadian children in order to examine the potential nutrition-physical activity transition. Methods. Height, weight, waist circumference, triceps skinfolds were directly measured on rural (RKEN) and urban Kenyan (UKEN) children (n = 179, 9–13 years) and compared with existing data from Canadian children living in urban and rural environments (n = 274, 9–13 years). Aerobic fitness was measured using the 20 m shuttle run, flexibility using the sit-and-reach test and isometric handgrip strength was assessed. Results. None of the RKEN children were overweight or obese (OWO). However, 6.8% of UKEN boys and 16.7% of girls were OWO. The RKEN children had lower BMI, waist circumference, and triceps skinfolds than all other groups (UKEN, and Canadian: p < 0.05). UKEN children were leaner than Canadian children (p < 0.05). Male and female RKEN children had higher running speeds, and aerobic fitness than UKEN children (p < 0.001). Isometric strength was not different between Kenyan groups and was not different from urban living Canadian children. UKEN children were the least flexible group, and girls were more flexible than boys in all groups. Conclusions. Urban Kenyan children appear to be showing signs of the nutrition-physical activity transition, as judged by the anthropometric similarities to contemporary living Canadian children. Further support is provided by examining the difference in prevalence of overweight/obesity among UKEN compared with their RKEN counterparts and their lower aerobic fitness level. Read More: http://informahealthcare.com/doi/abs/10.3109/17477166.2010.543683
Consumption of omega fatty acids and the risk of type 2 diabetes mellius among a rural and an urban population in Kenya
(2011-11-25) Wanjihia, Violet Wanjiku; Waudo, Judith N.; Otieno, Micheal Frederick
Background: Both the amount and quality of dietary fat may modify glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. A high fat content in the diet may result in deterioration of glucose tolerance by mechanisms like decreased binding of insulin to its receptors and consequently impaired glucose transport. Our bodies need fat. However, it must be the right kind. 03FA are a form of polyunsaturated fats, Key 03FA includes eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA C 20,5) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA C22,6), both found primarily in fish, they are increasingly recognized as important to human health but it is not yet clear how beneficial they can be in averting the risk of T2DM. Objective: to compare the risk of T2DM, in relation to 03FA (DHA & EPA) intake among a rural population whose traditional diet comprised of fish rich in Omega 3 Fatty Acids and an urban population whose diet had evolved from a traditional one and can now be termed as "modern". Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional comparative survey. The risk of T2DM was determined in a rural and an urban community in Kenya, by measuring factors such as Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT), Impaired Fasting Glucose (IFG) according to WHO diagnostic criteria. Obesity was also measured via Body Mass Index. The intake of 03FA (EPA & DHA) was determined using a 24 Hr, dietary recall that recorded the type and quantity of fish ingested. A total of 623 subjects, 405 rural (185 men, 220 women) and 218 urban (125 men and 93 women) aged 20-60 were included in the study. The rural population was drawn from Nyang'oma division of Bondo district and the urban population was drawn from Nairobi. Data was analysed using SPSS and Nutri-Survey Program. Pearson Correlation Coefficient was used to test correlation between 03FA consumption and factors associated with the risk of T2DM. The inter-group comparisons were performed by using an independent-sample t test and a one-way analysis of variance followed by Duncan's Multiple Range Test. Results: The prevalence of IGT, IFG & BMI was found to be higher among the urban population, as well as among the females for both rural & urban populations. There was also a significant positive correlation between age and prevalence of IGT (r= 0.204, p<0.05) & BMI (r=0.174, p<0.05). The difference between BMI levels among males and females was also very significant p= 0.003, with a majority of the females presenting very high levels. EPA & DHA were found to be consumed in the rural areas at a mean of 0.5964 and 0.0163 per day respectively and a mean of 0.1156 and 0.0137 respectively in the urban area. There was a highly significant negative correlation between EPA & DHA consumption and factors related to the risk of T2DM like IGT, IFG and BMI. The level of significance was considered at P<0.05. Conclusion: There is evidence of a high inverse correlation between the factors associated with the risk of T2DM and consumption of 03FA. The rural population who consumed a lot of 03FA, recorded lower levels of the risk factors, than the urbanites who had much lower consumption. Recommendation: Effective screening methods should be used at the existing health units to determine IGT and IFG patients and advise them accordingly on lifestyle changes
Content and bioavailability of micronutrients in street foods of low income groups, Nairobi, Kenya
(2014-06-13) Waudo, Judith N.; Oyunga, M. A.; Makokha, A.; Okwach, E .; Oiye, S. O.
Urban populations are utilizing a variety of initiatives to meet their food and nutrition security. Street food vending and consumption are some of such initiatives; and are wide spread especially among the urban poor. In Nairobi, more than 40% of lower-income groups consume street foods even though inadequate information exists on their nutrient content. These micronutrients are of public health concern in Kenya. The study investigated and compared vitamin A, iron and zinc content of commonly consumed street foods and factors that influence their nutrient levels from the middle-low (Dandora) and low (Kangemi) income areas of Nairobi. Fifteen and nine street foods (Dandora and Kangemi respectively) were evaluated using the high liquid performance chromatography for vitamin A, and atomic absorption spectrophotometer for iron and zinc content. Chi Square (χ2) and Student’s t-tests were used to compare proportional data and means respectively. Results show that orange fleshed sweet potato mainly consumed in Dandora had 130μgRE/100g the highest amounts of vitamin A. The rest ranged between 34.02to 0.00 μgRE/100g. Cabbages had the highest amounts of iron 18mg/100g, the rest ranged between 11.1 mg/100g to 0.0 mg/100g. Iron levels of cabbages, sausages, kales, and potato chips were comparatively higher in street foods analyzed than those from FAO and Sehmi data. Bioavailability of iron was higher in animal (97% -70%) sources compared to plant (50%-20%) sources in both sites. Important source of zinc was cabbages with 19.34g/100g, while others ranged between 12.1 g/100g, 0.0g/100g. The nutrient content of SFs between the two sites did not differ significantly although Dandora appeared to have higher iron content as compared to Kangemi.
Contribution of tourism ventures to the local people's livelihoods in the Maasai group ranches bordering Amboseli national park, Kenya
(2011-11-02) Nthiga, Rita wairimu; Waudo, Judith N.; Okello, M. M.
The tourism industry is widely regarded as a means of achieving development in destination areas. Indeed, the reason for tourism, the justification for its development and promotion is its potential contribution to development and improvement of local people's livelihoods. This research sought to explore the contribution of tourism ventures to the local people's livelihoods and to devek>pment in general, in the Maasai group ranches bordering the Amboseli National Park, Kenya. The study utilizes a descriptive survey design where both simple random and purposive sampling techniques were used to get the study sample. Data were collected using questionnaires which were administered to the local community members and interview schedules for the investors of the tourism ventures, group ranch officials, and The Kenya Wildlife service (KWS) and the Tsavo- Amboseli group ranches association. The variables investigated included social-economic and demographic characteristics of the locals and the distnbution of income by the t verges, number of locals employed and the ventures' community-based initiatives. Data vvene analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 14.0. Descriptive (frequency) and inferential Measures were determined to show how the variables of interest were distributed. In order to compare the relations between variables, Chi-square goodness of fit test was performed.. The results indicated that a lot of money (over Kshs- 12 million) was received by the tree group ranches every year from tourism investments and only a small amount went to the group ranch members or the local people. The majority of respondents were male (69%). A high percentage (47°/®) was illiterate and (40°%) practiced moralism as a source of livelihood. The majority of respondents (93%) did not receive any direct income from the leasehold by the tourism ventures while 94°/® did not have a member of their household employed hi the tourism ventures. A bffW number of respondeflts (97%) felt that tourism had not reduced their vulnerability to drought while 91% did not have any skills imparted to them by the tourism mveA;raents. The findings indicate that the group ranch members received limited benefits from tourism developments ht the area. The Andy recommends that there is need for the government to set policies addressing the management of grog ranches which will ewe co participation and benefit shag m tourism. The research also recommends inclusion of transparency and accountability aspects in the management of the group ranch resources
Dietary assessment of vitamin A and Iron among pregnant women at Ndhiwa Sub District Hospital – Kenya
(African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, 2014) Othoo, D.A.; Waudo, Judith N.; Kuria, E. N.
Vitamin A and iron deficiencies are among nutritional deficiencies of public health concern in the developing countries. Infants, children, pregnant and lactating women are at high risk of both deficiencies as a result of inadequate dietary intakes and associated physiological changes that cause increased demands for nutrients. Focus has in the past been on vitamin A and iron status of children below five years with little on maternal vitamin A and iron status and dietary habits. Studies on dietary intakes of these nutrients among pregnant women are limited in Kenya. This study assessed vitamin A and iron consumption levels as well as relationship between vitamin A consumption level, iron consumption levels and nutritional status of pregnant women. A descriptive analytical case study was carried out among 162 pregnant women who were accessed from Ndhiwa Maternal and Child Health (MCH clinic) and outpatient sections and recruited for the study through simple random sampling. Data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire and focused group discussion on home visits. The study found that most pregnant women (88%) did not meet their Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) for vitamin A as indicated by intake of less than 800µg per day. Majority (91.4%) did not meet their RDA for iron as indicated by consumption levels of less than 30mg per day. About 29% had BMI of 19.0-25.0. Other 61% had BMI of <19.0 while 7% had BMI of 26.0-29.0 while 3% had BMI of >29.0. Mid Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) showed 29% had normal nutritional status (.21 cm). 61% were under nourished (<21 cm) while 10% were over nourished (>26 cm). There existed significant relationship between vitamin A consumption levels, iron consumption levels and nutritional status of the pregnant women (r<1, P<0.05). Most women had two meals a day with irregular consumption of vitamin A and iron rich foods.
Dietary Diversity and Nutritional Status of Pregnant Women Aged 15-49 Years Attending Kapenguria District Hospital West Pokot County, Kenya
(2013-10-17) Kemunto, Marita Lillian; Waudo, Judith N.; Kuria, E. N.
Dietary diversity is an aspect of dietary quality that indicates general nutritional adequacy. Lack of diversified diets is a severe problem in the developing world, where diets are predominantly starchy staples with few animal products, seasonal fruits and vegetables. The nutritional status of a woman during pregnancy is important as a suboptimal diet impacts negatively on the health of the mother, the foetus and the newborn. There is limited knowledge in the area of dietary diversity and. factors' affecting it among pregnant women despite evidence showing that maternal nutrition has important direct and/or indirect consequences for all other age cohorts. The study aimed to assess the dietary diversity, the nutritional status and factors influencing the two among pregnant women. Cross sectional analytical design was used and the study was carried out in West Pokot County. A sample size of 142 pregnant women was targeted with the first respondent being randomly selected and thereafter systematic sampling was used until the required sample was reached. Mid upper arm circumference (MUAC) of the left arm of the respondents and haemoglobin levels of the women were measured to determine the nutrition status. Data were collected using researcher administered questionnaires and focus group discussion guide. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS and summarized using descriptive statistics such as frequencies, means and percentages. Data collected using 24 hour recall was analyzed by Nutrisurvey. A P value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The mean dietary diversity score (DDS) was 7.49 ±1.43 with 20% having high dietary diversity. Significant differences were found in DDS based on marital status with the married more likely to have a higher DDS .of 7.56±1.3b and the single had a lower DDS of 5.33±3.79a , (ANOVA, p= 0.027). There were significant differences in the mean macronutrients and micronutrients with regard to the DDS where respondents with a higher DDS (> six) were more likely to have a higher macro and micro nutrient intake compared with those who had a lower DDS «five). The mean energy intake was 1909 Kcal±630 which is below the Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA) of 2400 Ke-al for pregnant women. Based on MUAC cut offs, 31.7 percent were malnourished (MUAC ,<21.0cm) while 68.3 percent of the respondents were normal (MUAC >21.0cm). MUAC was positively correlated with the socio economic status (r=0.229, p=0.006). Based on the WHO cut offs (Hb <11.0 mmols/l), 73.6 percent were anaemic. Regression showed that the age of the mother and the numbers of births were significant predictors of the MUAC of the pregnant women (p=O.OO1). It is recommended that guidelines for nutrition and diets for pregnant women be developed and disseminated and promotion of dietary diversity and modification of diets be carried out through practical demonstrations in the community and health facilities. The findings of the study may be used by Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation (MOPHS) and other organizations to promote and implement programmes aimed at improving dietary diversity and nutrition status among pregnant women in the County and other counties with similar characteristics.
Dietary Diversity, morbidity prevalence and Nutritional Status of children (6 - 23 months old) in Kibera
(Kenyatta University, 2016-07) Miriti, Sussyann Makena; Waudo, Judith N.; Mugendi, Jane Beatrice
About 150 million children under five years are malnourished with 70% being in the developing world and 27% of these children are in Africa. Dietary diversity has been associated with improved nutritional status. Presence of diseases suppresses immunity; depress the appetite inhibiting the absorption and nutrient uptake compromising nutritional status. Informal settlements are associated with limited nutritious foods, inadequate clean water and inadequate health care facilities. This study was carried out to assess the dietary diversity, morbidity prevalence and nutritional status of children in Kibera informal settlement. A cross-sectional analytical study design was used where 277 children from 273 households were randomly selected from two locations. A researcher administered questionnaire and focus group discussion guide were used for data collection. Anthropometric measurements were used to determine the nutrition status. Dietary diversity was assessed with 24-hour recall and 7-day- food frequency questionnaire. The 24 hour recall was analyzed by use of Nutri-survey computer software; ENA for SMART was used to convert anthropometric data to Z-scores. Chi-square was used for establishing the relationship for categorical variables. The average size of a household was 3.9 (range 2-8) people. The caregivers were mostly young mothers who were housewives with mainly primary school level of education. The rates of stunting, underweight and wasting were 25.3%, 8.6% and 4.0% respectively. Over two-thirds (64.1%) of the infants were reported to have been sick within the past 2 weeks and only 26.0% sought consultation within twenty four hours. Most caregivers did not seek medical assistance since 66.7% considered the illness as mild while 23.5% lacked money to pay at the facility. Minimum dietary diversity score was determined where 79.4% of the children had received food from the four food groups and above. It was 92.6% in 18-23 months old category, 12-17 months old category was 80.2% and 70.6% in 6-11 months old category. Dietary diversity increased with an increase in age of the child whereby older children consumed a high DDS. Sex and stunting had a significant relationship where more boys were stunted than girls (Chi-square test; p=0.003). Age of the child was also associated with stunting among the children (Chi-square test; p=0.009) with more among the older children. Mothers with some level of education had better nourished children (Chi-square test; p=O.OOI). Occupation of the mother was associated with underweight and stunting (Chi-square test; p=0.006 and p=0.009 respectively). There was association between education level and the DDS score, P = 0.003), household source of income and the DDS score (P=0.003); there was relationship between dietary diversity and the number of times a child is fed. Children who were ill were more likely to be stunted (Chi-square test; p= <0.001). Thus this study recommends households sensitization on consumption of cheaper proteins and vegetables to improve dietary diversity, promote awareness on health seeking behaviors for prompt treatment, adult education to improve knowledge of caregivers especially on nutrition in regard to child feeding.
Dietary intake of adult women in South Africa and Nigeria with a focus on the use of spreads
(2012-10-05) Steyn, N P; Whadiah, Talip; Nel, J; Waudo, Judith N.; Kimiywe, Judith; Ayah, R; Mbithe, Dorcus
This study examined nutrient intake, dietary habits, and the weight status of adult women in South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria, with a focus on breakfast intake and the use of spreads on bread. Dietary intake from South African women was based on secondary data analysis of dietary studies which were already undertaken previously (n=992), and those from the National Food Consumption Survey and the South African Demographic and Health Study. A sample of 1008 women was randomly selected from all adult women in Kenya, as a representative sample of four districts. Data from Nigeria came from a national survey undertaken in 2003.a In all three studies, fieldworkers were trained to do personal interviews using specific questionnaires with each participant at their homes, namely a socio-demographic questionnaire, and a 24-hour recall questionnaire. Furthermore, each participant was weighed and waist and hip circumferences were measured. Reliability of the 24-hour recalls in Kenya were checked by means of repeated interviews on a sub-sample of 10% of the participants (n=104). Overall, South African women had an energy intake of 7239 kJ, carbohydrate intake of 244.5 g, protein intake of 61.6 g and a fat intake of 46.6 g while this was 6967 kJ, 231.1 g, 42.4 g and 62.3 g, respectively, in Kenyans. Generally, South African macronutrient and mineral intakes were higher than those of Kenyans were, with the exception of fat, saturated fat and iron intake. Fat intake as a percentage of total energy intake was greater in Kenya (33.1%) compared to that in South Africa (22.9%). Dietary data for South Africa showed that calcium, iron, folate, vitamin B6, and vitamin D were the most deficient in the diet. In Kenya, the most deficient nutrients were also calcium, vitamin B6, niacin, vitamin D, and folate; additionally niacin, thiamine and riboflavin intakes were low. In both countries, distinct significant urban-rural trends were noticed with regard to macronutrient and mineral intakes. Urban women had higher animal protein, fat, saturated fat, added sugar, cholesterol, sodium, selenium, potassium, and zinc intakes, while rural women had higher carbohydrate, plant protein, fibre and magnesium intakes. With regard to the vitamins in both countries, the intakes were generally higher in urban areas. 4 In South Africa the most commonly consumed foods were sugar, tea, maize porridge, brown bread, coffee, white bread, potatoes, hard (brick)b margarine and milk. In Kenya, these were tea, sugar, milk, cooking fat, maize porridge, kale, white bread, and hard margarine. In both countries, more than a third of the women had consumed hard margarine on the previous day. Cooking fat was only used by 6% of the South African women compared with 74% of the Kenyan women. This may have contributed to the higher fat and saturated fat intakes of Kenyan women. Dietary data indicate that in both countries the nutrition transition is underway. This is illustrated by the high prevalence of overweight and obesity and the urban and rural changes in the diet. The finding that more than 30% of energy intake comes from fat in Kenyan women is rather surprising, since traditionally, African diets are not high in fat. Furthermore, the fact that more than 10% of energy comes from saturated fat is not desirable. Both countries illustrate the worst of the developed and the developing world in that their diet is deficient in many micronutrients yet high in fat and saturated fats. However, this is an ideal opportunity to consider improving the fat and nutrient content of the margarines that are produced by Unilever Health Institute, since it can address the issues of over nutrition, under nutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. The most efficient ways to do this would be: 1) to improve the micronutrient content of margarine by adding vitamin B6, niacin, folate, riboflavin and thiamine to high/higher levels of the recommended intakes; 2) to reduce the total fat and saturated fat content of margarines, and to eliminate as much trans fats as possible; 3) to reduce the sodium intake of the margarines to maintain low salt intakes in Kenyan woman and to reduce levels in South African women, and; 4) to increase the omega-3 fat content of the margarines (if feasible). From a social responsibility point of view Unilever Health Institute could ensure that its advertising includes certain essential messages regarding its spreads: 1) the fact that it includes added micronutrients; a low (or zero) trans fat content; 2) has a reduced fat and saturated fat content; 3) has the added benefit of omega-3 fats, and; 4) can be used more liberally in the diets of children under age 5 years, while adults should not increase their levels above 30% of energy intake. These messages should also be used in brochures and other health promotion materials.
The dietary patterns and prevalence of type 2 diabetes among different blood types in two rural populations of Kenya
(2012-09-21) Kiplamai, Festus Kaino; Ogata, B.R.; Waudo, Judith N.; Boit, Michael K.
Introduction: Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder that is primarily characterized by insulin resistance, relative insulin deficiency and hyperglycemia. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes was studied in different blood types and the risk diet factors among the different blood types determined. Objective: To determine the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in the different blood types (A, AB, B and O). Method: A total sample size of 302 was randomly selected from two Kenyan populations. Their fasting blood glucose level and two hour post-glucose load blood glucose were determined and recorded under blood types. The participants also made a 24- hour recall of their diet intake from which the protein, milk, PUFA, carbohydrate and meat intake estimates were correlated to fasting glucose level. Results: There were more diabetic cases in blood type B among the Luo community (3.1% of N=32) followed by blood type A among the Kalenjins (2.0% of N=50) and then blood type O in both communities (Luo, 1.3% of N=77 and Kalenjin, 1.6% of N=64). There was a positive correlation between fat intake and diabetes in blood type B (r=0.588, p= 0.000) using the fasting plasma glucose level. There was a significant positive correlation in the amount of fish intake and diabetes in blood type AB (r=0.841, p=0.036). There was a significant positive correlation between meat intake and elevated fasting blood sugar level in blood type B(r=0.424, p= 0.016). Conclusion: Blood types A and O are at a higher risk of being diabetic due to the high cases of impaired glucose metabolism. People with blood type B are at a higher risk of developing diabetes type 2 if they consumed a lot of meat and fat. It is recommended therefore that they should manage their diet intake very closely to avoid foods that predispose them to elevated blood sugar levels.
Effects of Nutrition Education on Nutrition Knowledge and Iron Status in Primary School Pupils of Gatanga District, Muranga County, Kenya
(2013) Gitau, G. N.; Kimiywe, Judith; Waudo, Judith N.; Mbithe, David Dorcus
School-age children are both growing and learning, and anaemia can affect cognitive function, motor performance and educational achievements of this age group. Nutrition education has not been given the priority it deserves in primary schools due to the busy school curriculum. It is in this light this study was designed for one teaching calendar year. Subjects & methods: Pupils (n=601) covering the age 11-18 years were included. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of three main Nutrition Education strategies on nutrition knowledge and iron status among primary schools children in Gatanga district. A baseline survey was conducted in 12 randomly selected schools for class six pupils and their households. Questionnaires and an interview schedule were used to collect data, with pre and post tests. The interventions schools were Mabanda, Kigio and Kirwara (experimental) and Gakurari (control school). Baseline data were analyzed by use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Nutri-Survey computer packages using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The data were coded to search for emerging themes. This led to the identification of variables and concepts of iron deficiency in the children, which was crucial to the design of the corrective measures model for the interventions. On average the mean mark, in nutrition knowledge at baseline was 30.05%. In the post-tests all experimental schools (n=154) significantly improved in nutrition knowledge, and the peer facilitated school performed best with (51.52+24.79) marks, Researcher facilitated school (48.39+22.23) and the agriculture staff (38.70+9.87). The pre-test post- test improvement in the control school (31.21+12.74) was however not significant (p>0.05). A total of 31.4 % pupils ( Sub sample n=89) were found to be anaemic after altitude adjustments at a calculated factor 0.5 for Gatanga altitude (2237m ASL). Pupils’ haemoglobin status were not significantly different (p>0.05) between the experimental and control schools at baseline, notable differences occurred in the experimental schools after the interventions. Relationship between nutrition knowledge and nutrient intake was positive and there was a statistically significant relationship between nutrition knowledge and hemoglobin levels at p<0.05 (R2=0.253, p=0.025). Anemia was found to be a significant problem and therefore the need for a comprehensive intervention strategy by all stakeholders to improve the iron status in this age group.
Effects of Socio-economic Conditions of Small-scale Traders of Postharvest Tilapia Quality and Safety in Kisumu, Kenya
(2011-11-28) Otieno, Elizabeth Ockeyo; Waudo, Judith N.; Orinda, G. O.
Fish quality and safety are important in socio-economic development and are critical in nutritional requirements. However, constraints limit accessibility of the trade to both domestic and export markets. There has been difficulty in addressing these problems as little development support targets small-scale trade and environmental threats like fish contamination and pollution still remain a challenge. The objectives of this study were to determine the socio-economic conditions of the fish traders, to investigate hygiene practices in handling, storage and processing of fish and to isolate and identify human pathogens in both fresh and processed fish in the markets. A descriptive design was employed in this study, which described the socio-economic characteristics of the small-scale traders. The study was carried out in Kisumu town amongst 156 small-scale traders who were selected using random sampling method. A total of 30 respective samples were randomly selected from these traders in each of the 10 markets for microbiological analysis. Data collection instruments used were questionnaires, interview guides and observation checklists. Description statistics were used to analyse objectives one and two. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to compare mean plate count values of fresh and processed fish and this established a significance difference between the two with a value of 0.44. ANOVA also tested the total coliform counts which showed a significant difference in the means of TCC of fresh and processed fish samples with a Pvalue of 0.30 (P-value>T statistics of 5.245). T-test revealed that mean bacterial counts (APC) differed significantly from the standard value of 1Obcfu/g ((Pvalue>T statistics of 2.644). Statistical tests revealed strong relationship in education levels, average amount of money spent and income per day of traders and their fish handling practices. The APC and TCC results showed that fresh fish had higher bacterial counts than processed. The study results revealed that small-scale trade needs to be targeted with sound development, effective and supportive policies so that it can not only improve livelihoods by providing employment, but also contribute towards foreign exchange earnings. The traders also need to be empowered economically in order to improve their trade. There is need to educate the traders on good handling practices during the trade so as to improve quality and safety of fish and to avoid contamination of their products. The information generated from this study is useful for educating the traders. Further research should be done on human pathogens that course contamination.
Emerging evidence of the physical activity transition in Kenya
(2012-09-24) Onywera, V.O.; Adamo, K. B.; Sheel, AW; Waudo, Judith N.; Boit, Michael K.; Tremblay, M.
BACKGROUND: Comparable data to examine the physical activity (PA) transition in African countries such as Kenya are lacking. METHODS: We assessed PA levels from urban (UKEN) and rural (RKEN) environments to examine any evidence of a PA transition. Nine- to twelve-year-old children participated in the study: n = 96 and n = 73 children from UKEN and RKEN, respectively. Pedometers were used to estimate children's daily step count. Parental perception regarding their child's PA patterns was collected via questionnaire (n = 172). RESULTS: RKEN children were more physically active than their UKEN counterparts with a mean average steps per day (± SE) of 14,700 ± 521 vs. 11,717 ± 561 (P < .0001) for RKEN vs. UKEN children respectively. 62.5% of the UKEN children spent 0 hours per week playing screen games compared with 13.1% of UKEN children who spent more than 11 hours per week playing screen games. Seventy percent of UKEN and 34% of RKEN parents reported being more active during childhood than their children respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Results of this study are indicative of a PA transition in Kenya. Further research is needed to gather national data on the PA patterns of Kenyan children to minimize the likelihood of a public health problem due to physical inactivity.
Examining Kenya’s Tourist Destinations’ Appeal: The Perspectives of Domestic Tourism Market
(journal of tourism and hospitality, 2012-09-27) Ndivo, R. M.; Waudo, Judith N.; Waswa, F.
Kenya’s tourism activity has always been centered on the coastal beaches and a few game parks despite of being endowed with a unique combination of tourist attractions spread throughout the country. Noting this skewed nature of tourism development, this study aimed at investigating the status of appeal of the different Kenya’s tourist regions from the perspective of the domestic market with the goal of examining the efficacy of the destination appeal enhancers. Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires and analysed using mainly descriptive statistics. The study found out that while majority of Kenyans considered taking a holiday as being important to them, a significant majority of them were not be aware of most of the country’s touristic attractions and hence, frequented only a few of the country’s attractions, mainly the coastal beaches. Further, the study found out that the most important sources of travel information available to Kenyans were personal experience and information from significant others; travel marketers were considered as being the least significant source of information. The study thus, concluded that the limited scope of tourist activities available within most of Kenya’s attractions, coupled with the limited sources of travel information may actually be leading causes of the lack of awareness and popularity of most Kenya’s tourist attractions. This study thus, recommends a deliberate effort on the part of the tourism policy makers and marketers to enhance the appeal of all the country’s attractions and position them as destinations in their own right. This would call for the adoption of a tourism development strategy that not only seeks to promote the country as one destination with varied tourist attractions, but one that would adopt a bottom-up approach, primarily focusing on developing the individual tourist attractions as a way of ensuring a country-wide competitiveness.
Exchange programmes in higher education: the African experience.
(Kenyatta University, 2001) Waudo, Judith N.
Factors affecting food selection, intake and nutritional status of the elderly in Mathare slums of Nairobi Kenya
(2014-02-12) Kwamboka, Evelyn Makori; Waudo, Judith N.; Kithinji, C. T.
This study was conducted to investigate factors that affect food selection, intake and the nutritional status of the elderly in Mathare slums of Nairobi Kenya. The major objectives for this study were: to determine the nutritional status of the elderly in Mathare slums; to determine the food preferences, satisfaction! dissatisfaction with foods available in the market for the elderly in Mathare slums; to determine factors that influence food selection among the elderly in Mathare slums; to investigate the nutritional knowledge of the elderly in Mathare slums, and to establish the dietary intake of the elderly in Mathare slums. Data were collected using an interview schedule administered on a sample of 90 elderly people, aged 55 years and above and living in Mathare slums, between April and June, 2001. Anthropometric measurements, such as height, weight, armspan and MUAC were taken. A food frequency questionnaire was administered to assess the dietary intake of the respondents. Data were analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) for frequencies and percentages. Anthropometric data were analyzed using BMI cut-off point of 18.5kglm2 for underweight and MUAC cut-off points of 22cm for women and 23cm for men. The study composed of 57 (63%) men and 33 (37%) women. The most represented age group was 55-59 years. Most respondents were married and had at least some primary education. Forty one percent of the respondents had 4-6 dependants on their income. The elderly did not score well on the items on nutritional knowledge and therefore can be said not to be nutritionally knowledgeable. The physiological factors that affected their food selection and intake were dental problems, loss of taste and appetite and chronic diseases and 90% of them reported loss of weight. The psychological factors that affected food choices were loneliness and bereavement. The socio-economic factors that had most influence on the respondents' choices were income, cost offood, place where the food was bought, the cooking .•. facilities available and the means of transport to the market place. Eighty seven percent of elderly were satisfied with the foods available in the market for their use though they expressed a need for some specific modifications like reduction of prices, providing variety and improving the standards of hygiene. Thirty eight percent of respondents ate vegetables and cereals because oflack of money. The nutritional status of the elderly in Mathare was generally fair though 31% were underweight using BMI whereas 21%were malnourished using MUAC standards. Using a food frequency questionnaire, the dietary intake of the elderly in Mathare can be said to be high in cereals, low in animal foods and medium in vegetables and fruits.
Factors affecting the iron status of 15-49 years lactating and non-lactating mothers in Makongeni Thika distict, Kenya
(2011-11-28) Gitau, Gladys Njura; Kimiywe, Judith; Waudo, Judith N.
Iron deficiency is one of the most prevalent nutrient deficiencies in the world, affecting an estimated two billion people. Iron deficiency anaemia causes maternal deaths, decreased physical work and earning capacity, low birth weight and serious cognitive and psychomotor development in infants and children. In general, the 1999 national micro-nutrient survey found out that the prevalence of anaemia among the non- pregnant mothers was quite high in Kenya and in some clusters nearly half (41-50%) of the mothers were anaemic due to iron deficiency. Unfortunately,Thika was not included in this study. This study aimed to investigate the factors affecting the iron status of lactating and non-lactating mothers in Makongeni, Thika District.The objectives of the study were: -to establish haemoglobin levels of lactating and non-lactating mothers, to establish dietary iron intake of lactating and nonlactating mothers, to determine the factors that affect intake of dietary iron among lactating and non-lactating mothers, and to determine the relationship between the haemoglobin level and dietary iron intake of lactating and nonlactating mothers. The study was carried out in Thika district at Uzima Care Medical centre,a peri-urban area in Makongem estate of Thika Town. The study targeted one hundred lactating and one hundred non-lactating mothers. Socio-demographic, food security, food preparation and consumption patterns, health and sanitation and biochemical data were collected. This was a descriptive cross-sectional survey and an interview schedule was used to collect data including biochemical data on haemoglobin. Data were analysed using SPSS version 11.5, MS Excel and dietary analysis software (Food metres UK 7) for nutrient composition. The 24hr dietary recall and food frequency was used to determine the dietary iron intake. A cut-off of <7g/dl as severe anaemia, 7-10.9g/dl as moderate anaemia, 10.8-11.9g/dl as mild anaemia and 12-16g/dl as normal was used to categorise the haemoglobin levels.The diets of the respondents consisted of plant foods and less intake of animal protein. Iron was significantly related to all vitamins, with the strongest correlation being thiamine(r=0.833, p<0.01). The weakest correlation for iron was carotene (r= 034, p<0.01). Iron indicated a positive significant correlation with most minerals, including calcium (r-0.341, p<0.01, zinc (r= 0.785, p<0.01), and selenium (r=0.503, P<0.05). Copper relationships were not significant. The study revealed that lactating mothers had haemoglobin levels ranging from 7-14 g/dl, while the non-lactating mothers had 9-15 g/dl. On average, lactating mothers had a lower mean (12.1 +l.lg /dl) than nonlactating mothers (12.4 +l.lg/dl. From the findings 25% had mild anaemia (10.9-11.9g/dl) and 8.5% had moderate anaemia (7-10.8g/dl). Mild anaemia (33%), moderate anaemia (17 %), and severe anaemia (1%) was prevalent in the lactating mothers, as compared to 29% mild anaemia and 15% moderate anaemia in non-lactating mothers after altitude adjustment at a calculated factor 0.5 for Thika altitude (1700m ASL). In the past, nutritional studies have placed emphasis on rural population only. An increasing proportion of the population now lives in per'-urban and urban areas and it is important to recognise the critical health care requirements of people living in these settings. The present study, therefore emphasizes the need for a comprehensive intervention strategy, which should include both the nutritional and health strategies to improve the iron status of the population.
Factors influencing nutritional status and food consumption patterns of children with cancer: a case of Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya
(Scientific Conference Proceedings, 2012) Kuria, E. N.; Shikuri, R.; Waudo, Judith N.
Observations at the Kenyatta National Hospital wards prior to the research period indicated a marked increase in cases of child cancer patients being admitted with various complications. These complications interfered with the children’s food consumption patterns as there was increased morbidity and infections since the immunity of these children was weakened and they were not able to fight the disease effectively. The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors influencing nutritional status and food consumption patterns of children with cancer at Kenyatta National Hospital. A descriptive survey design was used. The study sample was made up of 60 children aged 6 months’ to14 years and 15 service providers. Purposive sampling was used. Data collection instruments included a self-administered questionnaire, an interview schedule, anthropometry, 24 hour dietary recall and an observation checklist. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences Programme. Research findings revealed that 32% of the children were stunted, 26% were underweight while 12% were wasted. The findings confirmed that all the 18.3% children in the advanced stage of the disease were malnourished. A majority (88.5%) of the children’s food intake was affected by the type of treatment received while the disease process affected 71.8% of the patient’s food intake. Most of these interferences occurred in the middle (55%) and advanced stages (18.3%) of the disease. Therefore as treatment becomes more vigorous and as the disease advances the patients tend to develop more nutritional problems since their food intake is affected. From the findings of this study, it is concluded that food consumption patterns of children with cancer at Kenyatta National Hospital were influenced by the following factors: type of cancer a child suffered from, stage of the disease, duration of cancer disease and therapy used to manage their conditions. In view of these findings, the study recommends that nutritionists should emphasize the importance of adherence to the amounts of nutrients recommended for individual child cancer patients.
Food intake and iron status of lactating and non lactating mothers in Kenya
(Arise publishers & distributors, 2008) Gitau, Gladys; Kimiywe, Judith; Waudo, Judith N.

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