Abstract
BACKGROUND: National nutrition programs are in operation for the last four decades, yet undernutrition continues to be an important public health problem in India. The study was carried out during 2016-2019 to assess the impact of health and nutrition education on infant and young child feeding practices and the nutritional status of the children. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A community-based pre- and post-intervention study was carried out in the Amreli District of Gujarat. Nutrition and health education intervention through posters, banners, pamphlets, and group discussion was imparted. Chi-square test and multivariable regression analysis were carried out. RESULTS: A total of 500 HHs were covered at both time points. There was significant improvement in availing ≥4 antenatal practices (69% vs. 87%), early registration of pregnancy (80% to 90%), consumption of ≥100 iron and folic acid tablets (68% to 76%), early initiation of breastfeeding (39% to 54%), exclusive breast feeding up to 6 months (41% vs. 69%), complementary feeding among 12- to 35-month children at 6-8 months (77% to 87%), sanitation and hygienic practices. The prevalence of underweight and wasting has declined significantly from 39% to 32% and from 20% to 13.6%, respectively. Community, education of mothers, per capita income, sanitary latrine, and cooking fuel were associated with the risk of undernutrition. CONCLUSION: There was improvement in infant and young child feeding practices among mothers, and undernutrition has declined during the study period. Therefore, there is a need of regular health and nutrition education along with regular growth monitoring, hygienic practices, and sanitation to reduce undernutrition among children.