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Protein energy malnutrition (PEM) and iron deficiency (ID) are global public health
problems affecting developing countries with major consequences on human health as well
as social and economic development. PEM at early childhood has serious long-term
consequences because it impedes motor, sensory, cognitive, social and emotional
development. Food-based strategies such as food production, dietary diversification and
bio-fortification are the most sustainable and best approaches to increase the macro and
micronutrient intake in a population. Despite these interventions, the adoption of foods
resulting from introduced crops remains doubtful. People in Kongwa district have remained
quite rigid in adopting new foods such as pigeon peas which are highly rich in protein and
iron. This study aimed to investigate factors predicting consumption of pigeon peas among
school-aged children living in Kongwa District. A cross-sectional questionnaire survey
based on a combined model of the Theory of Planned Behaviour and Health Belief Model
was undertaken, and reported here. A sample of 138 caregivers with school-aged children
(5–12 years), preferably those involved in food preparations in households, was randomly
selected from 4 villages in Kongwa. The selection also focused on those who were familiar
with, or had consumed pigeon peas before. Intention to consume pigeon peas was
significantly correlated with pigeon peas consumption (rs=0.263, P=0.002) while attitudes
towards behaviour (stand. β=0.206, P=0.035) contributed significantly to the prediction of
intention to consume pigeon peas. Perceived barriers appeared to be an important
interaction term in the relationship between intention and behaviour (stand. β=-0.268,
P=0.001). Health value (stand. β=0.485, P=0.000) contributed significantly to the
prediction of health behaviour identity. In order to promote pigeon peas consumption,
intention to consume pigeon peas could be increased by focusing on positive subjective
norms, health value and attitudes towards pigeon peas consumption. Finally, knowledge on
the nutritive richness of pigeon peas should be emphasized so that people can appreciate
the health benefits of consuming pigeon peas i.e. stimulate a positive attitude. |
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