Analyzing the level of knowledge and attitude of the mothers referring the urban health centers of Birjand about nutritional behaviors

BACKGROUND: Achieving a balanced and proper nutrition is one of the most important health objectives in the early years of the child's life. The aim of this study is to determine the level of knowledge and attitude of the mothers covered by the urban health centers of Birjand about nutritional behaviors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on the mothers with children less than five years referring the health centers of Birjand, in 1387. A questionnaire was prepared for data collection. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, Chi square, ANOVA, Tukey's post hoc and Pearson correlation coefficient statistical tests with a accuracy level of P < 0.05. RESULTS: Two hundred ninety four patients were studied. A meaningful difference was observed between the knowledge and attitude scores in terms of the mothers’ education stand (P = 0.002). Eighty three point seven percent, 65.6%, 82.7% and 64.6% of mothers were aware about the importance of iron absorption, the onset of iron supplement drop, the minerals and vitamins in the body, and the effects of vitamin A deficiency, respectively. The mothers’ knowledge and attitude about the nutritional behavior was evaluated at the average and good level, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Considering the average level of the mothers’ knowledge and attitude about children's nutritional behaviors, the retraining of family physicians and health centers staff about the importance of nutritional behaviors is recommended.