Knowledge of Teachers in Regards to Childhood Malnutrition and Reported Nutrition Information Resources

Abstract

It is important to examine teacher’s knowledge on malnutrition since they are at the vanguard of the implementation of the school based malnutrition prevention programs and therefore has the vital role to influence nutrition information and behaviour in children. It is only teachers with accurate and substantial information that can orientate the children rightly. This study set out to assess the knowledge levels of teachers on malnutrition in childhood and to explore resources used for information on nutrition. This cross sectional study was conducted among 387 male and female teachers who agreed to participate from 26 public and 13 private primary schools in 3 semi-urban communities in Ido Local Government, Ibadan, Nigeria. A structured and pretested questionnaire was self- administered and collected immediately. Data collected was analysed using SPSS version 16 statistical software. The Mean knowledge score was 49.9; 214(55.3%), 145(37.5%), 28(7.2%) teachers had good, fair and poor levels of knowledge respectively. Handbook (80.4%), television (70.5%) and radio (62.5%) were the major resources reported for use on nutrition information. Based on the findings of this study, percentage of teacher’s with adequate knowledge on childhood malnutrition is not sufficient. In-service training focusing on the causes, effects, symptoms and prevention of malnutrition in childhood would be invaluable; teachers should also be provided with relevant text books that can enhance their knowledge on nutrition issues.