Socio-demographic characteristics and awareness of risk factors of severe acute malnutrition among parents of children admitted in stabilization centres in Northern Nigeria: A multi-centre observational study

Abstract

Objectives: The study aims to determine socio-demographic characteristics and assess awareness of risk factors of severe acute malnutrition (SAM) among parents of children admitted to stabilisation centres in Northern Nigeria. Material and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between September and December 2025 across Federal Medical Centre Nguru (Yobe State) and three centres in Zamfara State (Talata Mafara, Gusau, Shinkafi). Structured questionnaires were administered to 408 parents of children aged 6–59 months diagnosed with SAM. Socio-demographic data, parental awareness of SAM risk factors and anthropometric measurements were collected. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 25, with Chi-square and logistic regression applied to test associations, and a p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of the children with SAM recruited was 23.9 ± 10.8 months; More than half (56.6%) were male. Nearly three-fifths of the mothers of the children were aged 14–29 years (57.6%), while fathers were older (mean 44.0 ± 11.0 years). Polygamous families predominated (71.3%), with the majority (71.3%) residing in rural areas. Nearly half (48.5%) reported displacement due to insecurity. Fathers were predominantly peasant farmers (75%), while 87.1% of mothers were housewives. Formal education was lacking in 55.4% of fathers and 55.5% of mothers. Socio-economic classification revealed 96.3% belonged to the lower class. Awareness of the link between antenatal care and SAM prevention was significantly higher among urban parents (odds ratio = 13.9; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 8.3–23.3; p < 0.001). Parents of children with chronic illnesses demonstrated greater awareness of SAM risk compared to those with recent illnesses ( p < 0.001). Conclusion: Parents of children admitted with SAM in Northern Nigeria are predominantly of low socioeconomic status, rural residence and limited formal education. Awareness of risk factors associated with SAM is significantly influenced by the place of abode and type of illness. Strengthening maternal education, improving antenatal care utilisation and targeted community-based awareness programs are essential to reduce the SAM burden.