Maternal knowledge of Cushuro (Nostoc sp.) and prevalence of iron deficiency anemia: A study at the “Liberación Social” Health Center, Trujillo - 2024

Abstract

The study aimed to assess the level of knowledge about Cushuro and the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia at the Social Liberation Health Center in Trujillo in 2024. Utilizing a nonexperimental research design, the sample comprised 80 mothers and 80 children under five years of age, selected through nonprobabilistic convenience sampling. Questionnaires were administered to the mothers to evaluate their knowledge of Cushuro, and the children's medical records were analyzed to determine the prevalence of anemia. The participating mothers were aged between 30 and 49 years, had secondary education, were employed, and predominantly from the mountainous region. The analysis indicated that a significant proportion of mothers had limited knowledge about the nutritional value of Cushuro (75%), and a high prevalence of iron deficiency anemia was observed among the children (58%). The findings underscore the necessity for educational and health promotion programs that incorporate local, nutritious foods like Cushuro to enhance child nutrition and reduce the incidence of iron deficiency anemia.