Knowledge and perception of malnutrition among the rural population in the central highlands, Madagascar

Abstract

Introduction: malnutrition due to inadequate food supply is a major challenge in low-and middle-income countries. The purpose of this study is to identify the sociocultural drivers of malnutrition. Methods: we conducted a qualitative study in the Amoron´I Mania region, Madagascar. The study involved pregnant women, mothers and fathers, grandmothers and health actors such as “matrones”, community workers and health workers. A total of 24 semi-structured individual interviews and 6 focus groups were used to collect data. Thematic analysis was used. Results: malnutrition refers to a lack of food and undernourishment. It revolves around the amount of rice consumption, socio-cultural factors and insufficient financial resources. Vulnerable groups were mainly composed of children and pregnant women. Severe malnutrition including signs was reported, but there was evidence for local adaptation. Thus, families were trying by different means to fight against malnutrition. Conclusion: the socio-cultural context modulates knowledge and perception of the causes, the manifestations and the vulnerability or non-vulnerability of an individual as well as the severity of malnutrition.