A STUDY TO ASSESS THE EFFECTIVENESS OF STRUCTURED TEACHING PROGRAM ON KNOWLEDGE REGARDING PREVENTION OF PROTEIN ENERGY MALNUTRITION AMONG THE MOTHERS OF PRESCHOOLER CHILDREN AT SELECTED COMMUNITY AREA IN KANPUR, UTTAR PRADESH.

Abstract

Background: Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM) is a significant public health issue, especially in low-income and developing regions. It occurs when there is a deficiency of protein and calories in the diet, which is vital for the proper functioning of the body. The condition can result in a range of health issues, including stunted growth, weakened immunity, and muscle wasting. PEM is often categorized into two types Kwashiorkor and Marasmus. PEM often arises due to factors such as poverty, food insecurity, lack of access to healthcare, and inadequate maternal nutrition. It can also be exacerbated by conditions like infections and chronic diseases that increase the body’s nutritional demands. In severe cases, PEM can be fatal, particularly in young children and the elderly. Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge regarding prevention of protein energy malnutrition among the mothers of preschooler children.Methods: The research approach adopted for this study is a Quantitative research approach. The research design was pre-test and post-test design. The study was conducted at Rural Area of Kanpur at Kukradev. A Convenient sampling technique was used. Self Structured knowledge questionnaire was used to assessing the knowledge regarding prevention of protein energy malnutrition among mothers of preschooler children. Results: In pre- test (66.66%) mother have Poor knowledge, (26.66%) mother have Average and (6.66%) mothers have good knowledge. The Pre-test knowledge score of mothers of under-five children mean and SD was (10.834.67.) In post-test(66.66%) of the mothers have good knowledge, (30%) of the mothers have average knowledge. (3.33%) of the mothers of preschooler children has poor knowledge. The Post-test knowledge score of mothers of preschooler children mean and SD was (21.473.56). It reveals that most of mothers have good knowledge despite that STP is effective. The computed ‘t’ value (t =22.5) was higher than the table value (t=2.04) at 0.05 level of significance. Hence, the research hypothesis H1 was accepted. Conclusion: The study concluded that the structured teaching program was effective in increasing the knowledge level of mothers of preschooler children on prevention of protein energy malnutrition.