Knowledge, attitudes and practices associated with compliance to maternal nutrition supplementation intake among antenatal women at Muhimbili National hospital

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Maternal nutrition supplementation is crucial in the prevention and management of pregnancy complications and ensuring fetal health. Proper intake of essential nutrients such as iron, folate, calcium, and vitamins can prevent common pregnancy complications including Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA), preeclampsia, and nausea. In Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), deficiencies in these key nutrients have been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as fetal growth restriction, neural tube defects, low birth weight, and increased risks of prenatal and infant mortality and morbidity. Despite efforts to promote the use of supplements and improve maternal nutrition through antenatal care programs, compliance rates remain low in many regions, including Tanzania. Objective: To assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices associated with compliance to maternal nutrition supplementation intake among antenatal women at Muhimbili National Hospital. Methodology: This was a facility-based cross-sectional study conducted at Muhimbili National Hospital, involving 200 pregnant women attending antenatal clinic. Simple random sampling was used in the selection of study participants. Data was collected through a questionnaire with structured close-ended questions adopted from the Institute of Nutrition and Food Safety of China Center for Disease Control and Prevention to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of respondents will be used. Compliance with nutrition supplementation (Iron-Folic acid) in this study was defined as daily intake of IFA supplements from the beginning of the first trimester until the day assessment. SPPS vs.25 was used for data analysis. Results: The study found that 70% of participants had inadequate knowledge about IFA supplementation, with significant gaps in understanding its benefits, usage frequency, and duration. Attitudes were predominantly negative, with 55.3% of participants holding negative views towards IFA intake. Despite high reported consumption of IFA tablets vi (98%), only 31% adhered to the recommended regimen. Compliance was significantly associated with knowledge level, employment status, and marital status. Conclusion: The findings highlight substantial gaps in knowledge and negative attitudes affecting compliance with IFA supplementation. Targeted educational programs, enhanced counseling, and community-based interventions are recommended to address these challenges and improve adherence. Engaging relevant stakeholders, including healthcare providers and community leaders, is essential to promote better practices and support maternal health.