Background of the study:
Malnutrition and food insecurity are critical issues that directly impact maternal and neonatal health. In Abeokuta South, pregnant women face significant challenges in obtaining adequate nutrition, often due to economic constraints, limited access to quality food, and fluctuating food prices (Olawale, 2023). Malnutrition during pregnancy not only affects maternal health but also contributes to adverse birth outcomes, including low birth weight and developmental delays (Akinyemi, 2024). Food insecurity further exacerbates these challenges by limiting consistent access to nutritious meals, which is essential for fetal growth and maternal well-being. Recent community-based studies have highlighted the urgent need to address nutritional deficiencies among pregnant women through targeted interventions and improved food distribution systems (Ibrahim, 2025). This study explores the extent of malnutrition and food insecurity among pregnant women in Abeokuta South, employing both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to provide a comprehensive understanding of the underlying causes and potential solutions. The aim is to inform policy development and program design that can enhance food security and maternal nutrition in the area.
Statement of the problem:
In Abeokuta South, a significant number of pregnant women suffer from malnutrition and food insecurity. Economic hardships and inconsistent food supply contribute to inadequate nutrient intake, resulting in adverse maternal and neonatal health outcomes. This situation necessitates an in-depth investigation into the prevalence and determinants of malnutrition (Ogunleye, 2023).
Objectives of the study:
1. To determine the prevalence of malnutrition among pregnant women.
2. To assess the level of food security in Abeokuta South.
3. To recommend interventions to improve maternal nutrition and food availability.
Research questions:
1. What is the prevalence of malnutrition among pregnant women in Abeokuta South?
2. How secure is the food supply for pregnant women in the area?
3. What measures can improve nutritional intake during pregnancy?
Research Hypotheses:
1. Malnutrition is highly prevalent among pregnant women in Abeokuta South.
2. Food insecurity is significantly associated with adverse maternal health outcomes.
3. Nutritional interventions will improve food security and maternal health.
Significance of the study:
This study offers critical insights into the link between malnutrition and food security among pregnant women, providing data essential for policy formulation and the development of targeted nutritional interventions to improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes (Babatunde, 2024).
Scope and limitations of the study:
This study is limited to assessing malnutrition and food security among pregnant women in Abeokuta South Local Government Area, focusing solely on local nutritional status and food availability.
Definitions of terms:
1. Malnutrition: A condition resulting from an imbalanced or insufficient intake of nutrients.
2. Food Security: The consistent availability of sufficient, safe, and nutritious food.
3. Maternal Nutrition: The dietary intake and nutritional status of a pregnant woman.
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