Knowledge, attitudes and practices towards iron supplementation among non-pregnant female students of Makerere University : a case study of College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences

Abstract

This study was to assess knowledge attitude and practice towards iron supplementation among non-pregnant female students at Makerere University: a case study of college of agriculture and environmental health sciences. It was a cross sectional study that involved 384 respondents randomly sampled. Majority 47% of non-pregnant female students in the College of Agriculture and environmental science are aged between 18 – 27 years. 76% of respondents were single. A greater section 86% of the respondents ever heard of iron supplementation. 39% were not sure of how frequent a person should eat food containing iron supplement. 54% knew that it helps to prevent anemia, 25% knew that it helps strengthen body immune system. Majority, 79% agreed that it is important take iron supplement routinely to prevent anemia. 65% of respondents agreed that green vegetable are cheap and easy to get sources of iron. 83% of respondents agreed that taking iron supplement helps our brain and body immunity and 66% of respondents often eat diet containing iron supplement. Conclusively, none pregnant female students at Makerere University have good knowledge, appropriate attitude and good practices regarding iron supplementation program. However, there are a few sections of female students who still need to be sensitized to increase their level of knowledge.