Determinants of under-nutrition among women of reproductive age in Sindh, Pakistan: Findings from Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey, 2012–2013

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Undernutrition is a significant public health concern in the developing world and factors such as high parity and short birth intervals are significant contributors to maternal undernutrition. This study aimed to assess determinants of undernutrition among women of reproductive age in Sindh, Pakistan, using the national demographic health survey. METHODS Data of 4050 ever married women of reproductive age from the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS) 2012–2013 were analyzed. These included sociodemographic and fertility-related variables. Logistic regression was applied to assess the determinants of undernutrition. RESULTS Women having ≥5 children were 47% less likely to be undernourished compared to women having <5 children (OR=0.53; 95% CI: 0.43–0.63). Undernourished women included those who belonged to rural areas (adjusted odds ratio, AOR=3.47; 95% CI: 2.76–4.36), those who breastfed their infants (AOR=1.40; 95% CI: 1.16–1.68), were smokers (AOR=4.35; 95% CI: 2.58–7.34) or worked (AOR=1.22; 95% CI: 1.09–1.47). CONCLUSIONS The highest rates of undernourishment were found among working women as well as those who breastfed, smoked or belonged to the rural setting. We recommend that breastfeeding and working women should be provided awareness through teaching sessions and other means to improve their nutritional status as this subset of patients typically require additional calories.