A Cross-Sectional Study on Mothers’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Towards Nutrition of Malnourished Under-Five Children in a Kabul City Hospital, Afghanistan

Mothers play a crucial role in child nutrition, particularly in children under five. Their knowledge, attitudes, and practices significantly impact child health and development. Malnutrition can lead to severe health complications, making maternal understanding of nutrition necessary. Objective: This study aimed to assess mothers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward under-five children's nutrition, considering age, education, and economic status, and to propose sustainable strategies for reducing malnutrition. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 99 mothers of malnourished children in a Kabul City hospital. Data were collected via structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS v25. Chi-square tests examined associations between maternal KAP and Sociodemographic factors. Results: Nearly half of the mothers had moderate to good knowledge of nutrition, the majority had moderate attitudes, and almost all demonstrated good nutritional practices. Significant associations were found between maternal knowledge and education, attitudes and age, and practices and economic status. Conclusion: Findings highlight the need to integrate sustainable nutrition education programs into maternal and child health policies. Strengthening maternal nutrition knowledge is a cost-effective and sustainable approach that contributes directly to achieving SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). These findings provide a baseline for developing culturally sensitive maternal nutrition education programs in resource-limited settings.