Factors affecting rural women’s knowledge on food and nutrition: a case of specific areas of rural Bangladesh

Abstract

This study investigates the factors affecting women's knowledge about food and nutrition in selected areas of rural Bangladesh. Respondents of the study included women who had participated in the BRAC Health Nutrition and Population Programme in the study region of Bangladesh in 2017. The findings revealed that women had a good level of knowledge about food and nutrition. Family size, annual income, and degree of education have significant effects on rural women's understanding of food and nutrition. We recommend developing an integrated approach by the government, extension department, and NGOs to work in collaboration within the rural contexts so that the country meets the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2: achieving food security and improved nutrition. This research will help policymakers in Bangladesh to devise effective strategies for addressing the country's current challenges of nutrition and associated health risks.