Publication:

Cross-sectional assessment of nutritional status, knowledge, attitudes and practices of lactating mothers in selected rural and urban areas of Vijayapura District, Karnataka

Background Maternal nutrition and appropriate infant feeding practices are critical determinants of maternal and child health. However, inadequate dietary intake and suboptimal breastfeeding practices remain major public health concerns in many parts of India, particularly in rural communities. The present study assessed the nutritional status, dietary intake, and knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to breastfeeding among lactating mothers in rural and urban areas of Vijayapura district, Karnataka.

Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 lactating mothers aged 18-35 years selected through multistage random sampling from rural and urban areas of Vijayapura district. Data were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire to obtain socio-demographic information and breastfeeding-related KAP. Anthropometric measurements were used to determine body mass index (BMI), and dietary intake was assessed using a three-day 24-hour dietary recall method. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and independent t-tests.

Results Among the respondents, 15% were underweight and 22.5% were obese. Energy intake was lower than recommended levels, with rural mothers meeting 43.66% and urban mothers 54.55% of daily requirements. Protein adequacy was higher among urban mothers (83.85%) than rural mothers (63.10%). Intake of iron, calcium, and vitamin C was inadequate in both groups. Although awareness of exclusive breastfeeding was high (94.5%), only 35.5% initiated breastfeeding within the first hour of birth, and 26% practiced pre-lacteal feeding.

Conclusions The findings indicate gaps in maternal nutrition and breastfeeding practices. Strengthening nutrition education and breastfeeding counselling through community health programs is essential to improve maternal and infant health outcomes.