Influence of Maternal Exposure to Mass Media on Growth Stunting Among Children Under Five: Mediation Analysis Through the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Program.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The issue of malnutrition in the Democratic Republic of Congo is severe. Meanwhile, the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene program has been demonstrated to be effective in reducing the rates of growth stunting among children.

Objective

We aimed to explore the association between maternal exposure to mass media and stunting in children through water, sanitation, and hygiene behaviors.

Methods

Mediation analysis was conducted using data from the 2018 Multiple Indicators Cluster Surveys.

Results

Mothers' exposures to television and the internet in the Democratic Republic of Congo significantly decreases the risk of stunting in children by 5% and 10%, respectively, mediated by household water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities and practices.

Conclusions<

SUBMITTER: Huo S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9021946 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature