Relationship Between Mother’s Dietary Diversity and Socio-Demographic Factors

Abstract

Background: Micronutrient deficiencies are prevalent among women of reproductive age in developing countries, posing several adverse effects on the health, function, and survival of women. This community-based cross-sectional study conducted in Bandarban, Bangladesh, aimed to assess women's dietary diversity and its association with sociodemographic factors. Methods: A total of 200 women of reproductive age (15-49 years) participated, selected through random household sampling based on inclusion criteria and consent for participation. Data was collected using structured questionnaires. The MDD-W indicator evaluated the consumption of ten food groups, with a diversified diet defined as consuming five or more groups. Descriptive statistics and Pearson’s Chi-square tests, were employed to explore associations (p<0.05) between socio-economic factors and dietary diversity. Results: Among the studied sample, 8.5% women were illiterate, while primary education is most prevalent at 29.5%. Marriage is prevalent, with 96.0% of women were married, primarily in household duties, and 68.5% classified as housewives. A significant portion, 50.5%, experiences financial constraints, with a monthly income of less than 20,000 Bangladeshi Taka. Pearson’s Chi-square test showed significant associations (p<0.05) between several socio-demographic factors such as marital status, number of child and minimum dietary diversity for women (MDD-W). However, age group, education, employment, and household income level do not significantly influence MDD-W attainment(p>0.05). Conclusion: The majority of the studied women have a diversified diet, indicating a positive dietary diversity status within the sample population. However, a notable percentage still lacks dietary diversity, suggesting a potential area for targeted interventions to promote healthier eating habits and nutritional diversity among this group