Abstract

Undernutrition was one of the major causes of mortality and morbidity among under-five children in Sub-Saharan
Africa. To understand the determinants of undernutrition among under-five children, this study was conducted at
Hoima Regional Referral Hospital (HRRH) in Hoima City. The source of data was household demographic and
socio-economic characteristics which included anthropometric data on under-five children at HRRH.
Anthropometric data included height, weight and MUAC for the different ages of the children. Data analysis was
done in the Epi Info program module and Stata statistical software. Multivariate analysis was done by fitting a
binary logistic regression model to establish the underlying determinants of undernutrition among under-five
children. It was found that children aged 39-59 months were less likely to be underweight than those aged less than
twelve months. Findings also revealed that stunting was more prevalent among children of peasant farmers than
the pastoralists. There was however no significant relationship between child wasting and selected child
characteristics. It was worth noting that the study was essential in pointing out the particular age groups among
under-five children as well as the occupations that contribute to undernutrition in Hoima City. Based on the findings,
the study recommends exclusive breastfeeding and proper complementary feeding, especially among those aged less
than three years. Special arrangements could also be put in place to have children of mothers engaged in cultivation
brought regularly for breastfeeding.
Keywords: Undernutrition, Anthropometric, Breastfeeding, Underweight.