Knowledge And Attitude Of Women Of Reproductive Age (15 - 49years) Towards Micronutrient Supplementation In Aba North Local Government Area, Abia State. :- Christian, Chinonso

ABSTRACT x Micronutrient deficiencies remain a major public health challenge among women of reproductive age (15—49 years), contributing to poor maternal and child health outcomes. This study assessed the knowledge and attitude of women of reproductive age towards micronutrient supplementation in Aba North Local Government Area, Abia State. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among 204 women selected using a multi-stage sampling technique across five urban areas. Data were collected with a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and Pearson’s correlation at 5% significance level. The mean age ofrespondents was 25.55 ± 7.53 years, with most being single (69.1%), students (56.4%), and from Igbo ethnic background (73.5%). Findings showed that although 85.3% had heard of micronutrients and 75.5% had heard ofmicronutrient supplements, critical misconceptions persisted. Only 6.9% identified iron as preventing anaemia, 23.5% recognized iodine as preventing goiter, and 55.9% linked folic acid deficiency to neural tube defects, while 90.2% were unaware of the role of vitamin C. Overall, 100.0% ofrespondents demonstrated poor knowledge, with a mean knowledge score of 16.99 ± 6.65 (out of 22). In terms of attitudes, 59.8% of respondents expressed negative attitudes toward supplementation, while 40.2% showed positive attitudes, with a mean attitude score of 3.28 ± 0.61 (out of 5). Education level was significantly associated with attitude (p < 0.05), as women with lower education reported more-'positive attitudes (80.6%) than those^with higher education (48.5%). Correlation analysis revealed a significant negative relationship between age and knowledge (r = - 0.161, p = 0.021), while knowledge was positively associated with attitude (r = 0.379, p < 0.05). The study concluded that despite high awareness, women ofreproductive age in Aba North demonstrated very poor knowledge and predominantly negative attitudes toward micronutrient supplementation. Targeted, culturally sensitive nutrition education in schools, supported by effective health counselling, can enhance knowledge, attitudes and use ofmicronutrient supplementation programs.