A Qualitative Study of Risk Factors Related to Child Malnutrition in Aileu District, Timor-Leste

Abstract

Improvement in child nutritional status is one of the major health priorities in Timor-Leste. A qualitative study was conducted in Aileu District, adjacent to the capital of Timor-Leste, Dili, in September 2010 to determine the possible risk factors associated with the high prevalence of child malnutrition. In-depth interviews were conducted to 32 guardians of children aged younger than 5 years. It was observed that early termination of exclusive breast-feeding and a short lactation period along with an unsanitary living environment were associated with the nutritional status of children in the study area. Although previous surveys have reported poor food security conditions in the country, no statements from the subjects supported this contention. The identified possible risk factors for child malnutrition were closely linked to each other and were mostly modifiable.