Wash Related Factors Associated With Nutrition Status of Children under Five in Ewaso Narok Wetland, Laikipia County, Kenya
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Date
2025-02
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Publisher
Kenyatta University
Abstract
This study investigates the association between Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) factors and the nutritional status of children under five in Ewaso Narok Wetland, Laikipia County, Kenya. The specific objectivves of the study were; to assess the status of nutrition among children under five years old in the Ewaso Narok wetland, to establish the socio-demographic factors influencing the status of nutrition among children under five years old in the Ewaso Narok wetland, to determine how WASH related factors impact the status of nutrition among children under five years in the Ewaso Narok wetland, and to establish the relationship between Nutrition status and selected WASH-related diseases among children under five in Ewaso Narok wetland in Laikipia county. Utilizing a mixed-method approach, both qualitative and quantitative data were collected to assess WASH-related parameters and their impact on child nutrition. The study sample comprised under-five children recruited from selected facilities every month. Data collection involved a review of hospital records and structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, including frequency tables, cross tabulation, pie charts, and graphs, were employed to analyze the data. Additionally, inferential statistics, such as binary logistic regression, were utilized to predict the nutritional status of children based on various WASH factors. The findings reveal significant correlations between WASH factors and child nutrition status. Notably, 62% of caregivers disposed of children's faeces immediately, indicating a positive impact on child nutrition. Moreover, children residing within 1 km of wetlands exhibited a 45% higher prevalence of malnutrition compared to those living farther away. Proper use of protective gear in wetland areas was associated with a 25% reduction in malnutrition rates among children. Furthermore, consistent handwashing before eating was linked to a 30% lower risk of malnutrition. Inferential analysis demonstrated that faeces disposal method (p = 0.045), distance to wetlands (p < 0.001), and handwashing practices (p = 0.012) emerged as significant predictors of child nutrition status. These findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions to improve WASH practices and enhance child nutrition outcomes in the study area. Based on the study's findings, recommendations are proposed to address the identified WASH-related challenges. These include implementing WASH programs targeting faeces disposal practices, wetland proximity, and handwashing behaviors. Additionally, enhancing access to improved water and sanitation facilities, promoting hygiene education, and encouraging safe disposal of children's feces are recommended strategies to improve child nutrition.
Description
A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Public Health (Epidemiology and Disease Control) in the School of Health Sciences of Kenyatta University, February 2025.
Supervisor
1. John Paul Oyore
2. Isaac Mwanzo