CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

Vitamin and mineral supplements are the most commonly used dietary supplements by

populations worldwide. The amount of micronutrients they provide ranges from less than

recommended intakes to much more, making them important contributors to total intakes. While

supplements can be used to correct micronutrient deficiency or maintain an adequate intake,

over-the-counter supplements are most often taken by people with no clinical signs or symptoms

of deficiency.

However, the effect of vitamin and mineral supplements on the risk of non-communicable

diseases in "generally healthy" populations is controversial. We examine patterns of supplement

use and the evidence on their effects from randomised trials.

Vitamin deficiency is estimated to contribute to more than one third of all child deaths, although

it is rarely listed as the direct cause. Deficiency of vitamins in Childhood is a serious challenge in

Sub-Saharan Africa and a major underlying cause of death. It is a result of dynamic and complex

interaction between political, social, economic, environmental and other factors. Vitamin

deficiency is a major contributor to mortality and is increasingly recognized as a cause of

potential lifelong functional disability. It is well recognized as a widespread health problem with

consequences that are acute and even, more often long-term problems. Malnutrition remains a

problem of public health concern in most developing countries (Kennedy, Ped-ro, Seghieri,

Nantel & Brouwer 2007). Containing less or no animal products, and slight amounts of fresh

fruits and vegetables, diets are deficient in micronutrients and of poor quality. In a global

context, approximately 45% of the 6.6 million deaths of children under-five year of age in 2012
are caused by under-nutrition (UNICEF, 2012). Geographically, the majority of the under-

nutrition burden exists in Sub-Saharan Africa and South-Central Asia (Bhutta and Salam 2012).

Malnutrition has three commonly used comprehensive types named stunting, wasting and

underweight: measured by height for age, weight for height and weight for age indexes

respectively. Adequate nutrition continues to play an important role during the school age years

in assuring that children reach their full potential for growth, development and health. Nutrition

problems can still occur during this age, such as iron-deficiency anemia, under nutrition such as

Kwashiorkor, marasmus, over-nutrition and dental caries. The prevalence of obesity is increasing

but the beginning of eating disorders can also be detected in some school age and preadolescent

children. In addition, adequate nutrition prevents the onset of health-related problems,

encouraging a healthy eating pattern can help prevent immediate health concerns as well as

promote a healthy lifestyle, which in turn may reduce the risk of the child developing a chronic

condition such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease later in life (Story, Holts &

Sofka 2000). Adequate nutrition, that are acute and even, more often long-term problems.

Malnutrition remains a problem of public health concern in most developing countries (Kennedy,

Ped-ro, Seghieri, Nantel & Brouwer 2007). Containing less or no animal products, and slight

amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables, diets are deficient in micronutrients and of poor quality.

In a global context, approximately 45% of the 6.6 million deaths of children under-five year of

age in 2012 are caused by under-nutrition (UNICEF, 2012). Geographically, the majority of the

under-nutrition burden exists in Sub-Saharan Africa and South-Central Asia (Bhutta and Salam

2012). Malnutrition has three commonly used comprehensive types named stunting, wasting and

underweight: measured by height for age, weight for height and weight for age indexes

respectively. Adequate nutrition continues to play an important role during the school age years
in assuring that children reach their full potential for growth, development and health. Nutrition

problems can still occur during this age, such as iron-deficiency anemia, under nutrition such as

Kwashiorkor, marasmus, over-nutrition and dental caries. The prevalence of obesity is increasing

but the beginning of eating disorders can also be detected in some school age and preadolescent

children. In addition, adequate nutrition prevents the onset of health-related problems,

encouraging a healthy eating pattern can help prevent immediate health concerns as well as

promote a healthy lifestyle, which in turn may reduce the risk of the child developing a chronic

condition such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease later in life (Story, Holts &

Sofka 2000). Adequate nutrition, that are acute and even, more often long-term problems.

Malnutrition remains a problem of public health concern in most developing countries (Kennedy,

Ped-ro, Seghieri, Nantel & Brouwer 2007). Containing less or no animal products, and slight

amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables, diets are deficient in micronutrients and of poor quality.

In a global context, approximately 45% of the 6.6 million deaths of children under-five year of

age in 2012 are caused by under-nutrition (UNICEF, 2012). Geographically, the majority of the

under-nutrition burden exists in Sub-Saharan Africa and South-Central Asia (Bhutta and Salam

2012). Malnutrition has three commonly used comprehensive types named stunting, wasting and

underweight: measured by height for age, weight for height and weight for age indexes

respectively. Adequate nutrition continues to play an important role during the school age years

in assuring that children reach their full potential for growth, development and health. Nutrition

problems can still occur during this age, such as iron-deficiency anemia, under nutrition such as

Kwashiorkor, marasmus, over-nutrition and dental caries. The prevalence of obesity is increasing

but the beginning of eating disorders can also be detected in some school age and preadolescent

children. In addition, adequate nutrition prevents the onset of health-related problems,

encouraging a healthy eating pattern can help prevent immediate health concerns as well as

promote a healthy lifestyle, which in turn may reduce the risk of the child developing a chronic

condition such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease later in life (Story, Holts &

Sofka 2000).

especially eating breakfast has been associated with improved academic performance in school

and reduced tardiness and absence (Meyer, Sampson, Weitzman, Rogers & Kayne 1989).

Consequently, this meets the energy and nutrient needs of the children, addressing common

nutrition problems, and preventing nutrition-related disorders.

The growth and development of school-age and preadolescent children and their relationships to

nutritional status is significant right from the beginning. Children continue to grow physically at

a steady rate during this period; nevertheless the development from cognitive, emotional and

social standpoint is tremendous. This period in a child's life is preparation for the physical and

emotional demands of the adolescent growth spurt, with aid of family members, teachers and

others in their lives who model healthy eating and physical activity behaviors. This thesis focuses

on the effects of malnutrition and the impact it has on the lives of children in the developing

countries, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia by re-viewing existing scientific-

based literatures on the topic of malnutrition. The purpose of this study was to find out and

describe why developing countries are associated with malnutrition problems. The study is

conducted through a systematic literature review because it synthesizes and analyzes previous

literature findings in an impartial way.

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

The purpose of this research work is to find out the effect of Vitamins on children's health in

Fagge Local Government Area of Kano State. Over the years the problems of the study therefore

come in the form:

1. What are the causes of poor nutrition in the area?

2. Is there any effect of vitamins on children who are malnourished?

3. Is there any relationship between pre-natal and post-natal nutrition.

4. Are children suffering from vitamins deficiency, suffers set back in their academic pursuit.

1.3 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

The objectives of the study are;

1. To examine the causes of vitamins deficiency in Fagge local government area of Kano State.

2. To examine the effect of vitamins on children who are malnourished.

3. To examine the relationship between anti-natal and post natal nutrition.

4. To examine the academic performance of children suffering from Vitamins deficiency.

1.4 RESEARCH HYPOTHESES

For the successful completion of the study, the following research hypotheses were formulated

by the researcher;

Ho: there are no causes of vitamins deficiency in Fagge Local Government area of Kano State.

H₁: there are causes of vitamins deficiency in Fagge Local Government Area of Kano State

H02: there is no effect of vitamins on children who are malnourished

H2: there is effect of vitamins on children who are malnourished

1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The benefits that could be derived from the outcome of the research work are as follows:
1. It will provide useful information to parents on how best to provide the necessary nutrition to

their children.

2. Identification of the causes of vitamins deficiency on children and the implementation of the

recommendations suggestion by various nutritional bodies will lead to better and healthy

generation.

3. The result of the research work will be important to parents, government, advisers on child

right and well being and education planners.

4. Lastly, this research work tends to make her findings and recommendations a good starting

point for the investigation in related field in the near future.

1.6 SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

The scope of the study covers the entire Fagge Local Government. The researcher encounters

some constrain which limited the scope of the study;

a) AVAILABILITY OF RESEARCH MATERIAL: The research material available to the

researcher is insufficient, thereby limiting the study

b) TIME: The time frame allocated to the study does not enhance wider coverage as the

researcher has to combine other academic activities and examinations with the study.

c) ORGANIZATIONAL PRIVACY: Limited Access to the selected auditing firm makes it

difficult to get all the necessary and-required information concerning the activities

1.7 DEFINITION OF TERMS

Anti-natal nutrition: This is the taking in of necessary food substance to prevent the unborn

child from any impairment before and after birth.

Cognitive development: This is the gradual growth of the child's mental process of

understanding.
Malnutrition: This is a poor condition of health caused by a lack of food or lack of the right

type of food.

Nutrition: This is the series of process by which the living organism obtain food substance

needed to produce energy and materials for their growth, activities and reproduction.

Poor nutrition: This is a situation of having a very small amount of required nutrient.

Post natal nutrition: This is the process of taking nutrient, needed by a new born child for

proper development both physically, mentally and emotionally.

Pre-natal: This is the taking of necessary food nutrient, needed by pregnant women for the

proper development of the unborn child.

1.8 ORGANIZATION OF THE STUDY

This research work is organized in five chapters, for easy understanding, as follows Chapter one

is concern with the introduction, which consist of the (overview, of the study), historical

background, statement of problem, objectives of the study, research hypotheses, significance of

the study, scope and limitation of the study, definition of terms and historical background of the

study. Chapter two highlights the theoretical framework on which the study is based, thus the

review of related literature. Chapter three deals on the research design and methodology adopted

in the study. Chapter four concentrate on the data collection and analysis and presentation of

finding. Chapter five gives summary, conclusion, and recommendations made of the study.
 CHAPTER TWO

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

2.1 VITAMINS

Vitamins are organic compounds that people need in small quantities. Most vitamins need to

come from food because the body either does not produce them or produces very little. Each

organism has different vitamin requirements. For example, humans need to get vitamin C from

their diets while dogs can produce all the vitamin C that they need. For humans, vitamin D is not

available in large enough quantities in food. The human body synthesizes the vitamin when

exposed to sunlight, and this is the best source of vitamin D.

Different vitamins play different roles in the body, and a person requires a different amount of

each vitamin to stay healthy. Nutritional status is clearly compromised by diseases with an

environmental component, such as those carried by insect or protozoan vectors, or those caused

by an environment deficient in micronutrients. But the effects of adverse environmental

conditions on nutritional status are even more pervasive. Environmental contamination (e.g.

destruction of ecosystems, loss of biodiversity, climate change, and the effects of globalization)

has contributed to an increasing number of health hazards (Johns & Eyzaguirre, 2000), and all

affect nutritional status. Overpopulation, too, is a breakdown of the ecological balance in which

the population may exceed the carrying capacity of the environment. This then undermines food

production, which leads to inadequate food intake and/or the consumption of non-nutritious food,

and thus to malnutrition. On the other hand, malnutrition itself can have far-reaching impacts on

the environment, and can induce a cycle leading to additional health problems and deprivation.

For example, malnutrition can create and perpetuate poverty, which triggers a cycle that hampers

economic and social development, and contributes to unsustainable resource use and
environmental degradation (WEHAB, 2002). Breaking the cycle of continuing poverty and

environmental deterioration is a prerequisite for sustainable development and survival

2.2 VITAMIN DEFICIENCY

Even though it has long been recognized that vitamin deficiency is associated with mortality

among children (Trowell, 1948; Gomez et al., 1956), a formal assessment of the impact of

vitamin deficiency as a risk factor was only recently carried out. In the early 1990s, results of the

first epidemiological study on malnutrition showed that malnutrition potentiated the effects of

infectious diseases on child mortality at population level (Pelletier, Frongillo & Habicht, 1993), a

result that up until then had only been observed clinically. The methodology was based on the

results of eight community-based prospective studies that looked at the relationship between

anthropometry and child mortality in developing countries (Pelletier et al., 1994). The literature

review used to select the eight studies was published separately (Pelletier, 1994). The results of

the eight studies were consistent in showing that the risk of mortality was inversely related to

weight-for-age, and that there was an elevated risk even at mild-to-moderate levels of

malnutrition. In fact, most malnutrition-related deaths were associated with mild-to-moderate,

rather than severe, malnutrition, because the mild-to-moderately malnourished population was

much bigger than the severely malnourished population. The study also confirmed that

malnutrition has a multiplicative effect on mortality. Taking into account all underlying causes of

death, the results suggested that malnutrition was an associated cause in about one half of all

child deaths in developing countries. From a national policy perspective, however, the

epidemiological study had a limitation: the global estimate of malnutrition-associated mortality

could not be applied to countries with distinct disease profiles. To fill this gap, a joint

WHO/Johns Hopkins University working group was set up to estimate the contribution of
malnutrition to cause-specific mortality in children. The first step was a literature review to

collect data for estimating the relationship between malnutrition and mortality from diarrhoea,

acute respiratory infections, malaria and measles (Rice et al., 2000). Cause-specific mortality

was estimated by applying the method of Pelletier et al. (1994) to the data of 10 cohort studies

that contained weight-for-age categories and cause-of-death information. The weight for-age

categories were based on the number of standard deviations (SDs) from the median value of the

National Centre for Health Statistics (NCHS)/WHO international reference population (<-3 SD; -

3 SD to <-2 SD; -2 SD to < -1 SD; and > -1 SD).

All the included studies contributed information on weight-for-age and risk of diarrhoea, malaria,

measles, acute respiratory infections and all-cause mortality (comprising other remaining

infectious diseases besides HIV). These other infectious diseases include: tuberculosis, sexually

transmitted disease excluding HIV, pertussis, poliomyelitis, diphtheria, tetanus, meningitis,

hepatitis B and C, tropical-cluster diseases, leprosy, dengue, Japanese encephalitis, trachoma,

intestinal nematode infections, upper respiratory infections and otitis media. By including these

other infectious disease the burden estimates take into account, for example, malnutrition

associated effects on immune system and consequent worsened prognosis of disease

development. The relationship between weight-for-age and risk of death was estimated by

calculating the logarithms of the mortality rates by cause and by anthropometric status for each

country, and using weighted random effects models. Using these models, the working group

derived the relative risks of dying for each cause and all causes. The attributable fractions of

mortality associated with a weight-for-age lower than 1 SD from the median value were 44.8%

for measles, 57.3% for malaria, 52.3% for acute respiratory infections, 60.7% for diarrhoea, and

53.1% for other infectious diseases (all-cause mortality). To estimate cause-specific morbidity, a
statistical meta-analysis of published data was conducted to select longitudinal studies that

compared incidence data according to past anthropometric status.

According to the results, underweight status among preschool-age children was significantly

associated with subsequent risk of episodes of diarrhoea and acute respiratory infection, but the

association with clinical malaria was not statistically significant. There was no evidence that

underweight status influenced susceptibility to measles infection. The overall attributable

fractions of morbidity associated with weight for-age below -2 SD were 16.5%, 5.3% and 8.2%

for acute respiratory infections, diarrhoea and malaria, respectively (see Table 3.2, Section 3.5

for relative risks). There is evidence that the burden of disease associated with malnutrition

extends beyond this approach, which looks only at certain disease groups. But until there are

community based cohort studies from which relative risks can be derived for other diseases, an

assessment of the national burden of malnutrition will be restricted to these that were studied.

2.3 VITAMINS AND CHILD GROWTH

A child's growth totally depends on his daily nutritional intake. The diet of every child should

provide all the essential vitamins to cover all his growth needs. Most of the parents consider an

increase in height as the only sign of growth. But physical growth actually refers to the increase

in height, weight, and other body changes that occur as a child matures.

The rate of growth varies from child to child. So, it's better to have enough patience to see the

growth instead of worrying. It is always suggested to provide the vitamins only through diet, as

there is no replacement for natural nutrients. If your child is a Fussy eater, consider some multi-

vitamin replacements only after seeking an expert’s advice.

List of growth enhancer vitamins:

The complete list of vitamins that aid growth is mentioned below. These growth enhancer

vitamins take every aspect of your child’s growth into consideration. So, if you want to see

healthy growth in your child, make sure he gets all these vitamins through his diet.

Vitamin A:

Vitamin A is one of the most important vitamins and is vital for bone growth, good vision, and

immunity which can help to stay away from infections. Whole milk, cheese, carrots, beetroot,

spinach are some of the food sources rich in vitamin A.

Vitamin B-complex:

Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, and B12 all greatly contribute to the needs of a growing child.

Vitamin B1:

It aids bone growth, improves digestion and absorption of nutrients into the body. Vitamin B1 is

found in fish, nuts, and pecans.

Vitamin B2:

It is essential for the all-around growth of the child. It mainly helps in the growth of bones, hair,

nails, and skin. Vitamin B2 is found in leafy green vegetables.

Vitamin B3:

It plays an important role in the production of energy and keeps the skin, digestive & nervous

systems healthy and functioning properly. Peanuts, mushrooms, green peas are some of the best

sources of vitamin B3.

Vitamin B5:

It helps to stimulate the growth hormones and is required in small amounts. Corn, cauliflower,

chicken, and sweet potatoes are some food sources of vitamin B5.

Vitamin B12:
It aids the synthesis of folate and carbohydrates, which are required for the normal growth &

development in kids. Fish, eggs, milk products are rich in vitamin B12.

Vitamin C:

It helps to help the body heal and recover from wounds. It also protects the child against diseases

that can stunt growth. Citrus fruits and lemon provide ample amounts of vitamin C.

Vitamin D:

Calcium and vitamin D are like two sides of a coin. Even a diet with required calcium intake

doesn’t help for growth without vitamin D. This vitamin helps bones to absorb calcium. The best

way to get enough vitamin D is to spend some time in sunlight.

2.4 SIGN AND SYMPTOMS OF VITAMIN DEFICIENCY

According to each deformity or abnormality has some sign and symptoms. Sign and symptoms

give indication to the person that they have a problem. Vitamin deficiency is caused by poor diet

in term of under nutrition and over nutrition. According to A symptom is something the patient

feels and reports, while a sign is something other people, such as the doctor detect. For example,

pain may be a symptom while a rash may be a sign. The author further elaborated the signs and

symptoms of malnutrition as loss of fat (adipose tissue), breathing difficulties, a higher risk of

respiratory failure, higher risk of complications after surgery, higher risk of hypothermia,

abnormally low body temperature, higher susceptibility to feeling cold, longer healing times for

wounds, longer recover times from infections, longer recovery from illnesses, lower sex drive,

problems with fertility, reduced muscle mass, reduced tissue mass, fatigue, or apathy and

irritability etc. Malnutrition caused so many problems such as lower sex drive, reduction in

muscles mass, obesity and improper functioning of body parts. Use of nutrition varies from
person to person and activity to activity. It is necessary for an individual to use diet to his/her

physique and concerned activity.

The following are common signs of Vitamin deficiency:

1. Unintentional weight loss

2. Low body weight

3. Lack of interest in eating and drinking

4. Feeling of fatigue

5. Feeling weakness

6. Improper growth of Childs

2.5 CAUSES OF VITAMIN DEFICIENCY

Food insecurity, or an inability to access enough food, is often cited as a cause of vitamin

deficiency. The FAO has outlined six factors that work together to predispose individuals to

food: agricultural production of food; the preservation of food (including processing); the

population, in terms of child spacing and overall density; the prevalence of poverty; political

ideologies; and disease and infection epidemiology (see Exhibit for further detail on the six

determinants). Usually there is not one single cause of malnutrition, but various factors at both

the individual and communal levels that contribute.

Clinical Causes

At the most fundamental level, a body becomes malnourished when it does not obtain a

sufficient quantity and/or quality of food and nutrients. In addition to water, six different nutrient

groups are critical for the body to sustain itself and grow: proteins, carbohydrates, minerals (e.g.,

zinc, calcium, sodium), fats, vitamins, and indigestible and un-absorbable particles such as fiber.

In order for the body to benefit from nutrients consumed, it must be able to digest, absorb, and
use the nutrients effectively. Infections and health problems such as cancer, diarrheal diseases,

and HIV can limit the body's ability to absorb sufficient nutrients and calories, predisposing an

individual to malnutrition. Physical ailments can also contribute to the degradation of nutritional

status. Poor dental hygiene resulting in tooth decay, for example, can limit the amount and types

of food consumed, and leprosy-related amputations and other mobility-reducing handicaps can

impede physical access to food. The early cessation of breastfeeding for cultural reasons or due

to the mother's lack of production contributes to childhood malnutrition. Ceasing breastfeeding

often limits an infant's intake of calories and of vital antibodies that support immune system

functioning and prevent diarrheal disease.

Social Causes

Poverty can be both a cause and a result of malnutrition. Low wages can lead to household food

insecurity, making family members more vulnerable to infection or other clinical causes of

malnutrition. As discussed, children growing up malnourished are less likely to be productive

adults and become trapped in the cycle of poverty

Environmental Causes

Malnutrition tends to affect rural areas more than urban. Food security in rural communities

depends on natural and human resources that are vulnerable to change, including rain or weather

patterns, access to tools, agricultural knowledge, and human capital. Other environmental causes

of malnutrition include diarrhea due to poor sanitation, which impedes nutrient absorption. In

India, for example, stunting from chronic malnutrition afflicts 65 million children under the age

of 5, including one third of children from the nation's wealthiest socioeconomic class with secure

access to food. In 2011, an estimated 620 million people, about half of India's population,

defecated outdoors. Outdoor defecation stems from necessityonly 47% of Indian households
have a toilet as well as cultural norms and low educational attainment. Extensive population

growth suggests that more Indians are being exposed to pathogens in human waste than ever

before. In children, repeated bacterial infections flatten intestinal linings, reducing the body's

ability to absorb nutrients by 33%, as well as decrease levels of normal digestive bacteria.

2.6 TREATMENTS FOR VITAMIN DEFICIENCY

It is necessary for the health experts to provide treatment to the patient according to his/her

general health and severity of the abnormality or deformity. According to Treatment of a person

with vitamin deficiency depends on the person's general health and how severely malnourished

they are

The first dietary advice is usually:

1. Use foods that are high in calories and protein

2. Snacking between meals

3. Having drinks that contain lots of calories

4. Avoid Excessive intake of food

5. Use diet when needed

2.7 PREVENTING THE DEFICIENCY OF VITAMIN

According to NHA (2015), it is necessary for a person to avoid malnutrition and also to use all

those food ingredients or healthy diet which promote his/her health. Healthy diet include to use

Plenty of fruit and vegetables Plenty of bread, rice, potatoes, pasta and other starchy foods Milk

and dairy foods Meat, fish, eggs, beans and other non-dairy sources of protein
 CHAPTER THREE

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Research design

The researcher used descriptive research survey design in building up this project work the

choice of this research design was considered appropriate because of its advantages of

identifying attributes of a large population from a group of individuals. The design was suitable

for the study as the study sought effect of vitamins on children's health.

3.2 Sources of data collection

Data were collected from two main sources namely:

(i) Primary source and

(ii) Secondary source

Primary source:

These are materials of statistical investigation which were collected by the research for a

particular purpose. They can be obtained through a survey, observation questionnaire or as

experiment; the researcher has adopted the questionnaire method for this study

Secondary source:

These are data from textbook Journal handset etc. they arise as byproducts of the same other

purposes. Example administration, various other unpublished works and write ups were also

used.

3.3 Population of the study

Population of a study is a group of persons or aggregate items, things the researcher is interested

in getting effect of vitamins on children’s health. 200 residents in Fagge Local Government of

Kano state was selected randomly by the researcher as the population of the study.
3.4 Sample and sampling procedure

Sample is the set people or items which constitute part of a given population sampling. Due to

large size of the target population, the researcher used the Taro Yamani formula to arrive at the

sample population of the study.

N
n=
1+ N (e)2

200
n=
1+200 (0.05)2

200
n=
1+200 ( 0. 0 0 2 5 ) 2

200 200
¿ = =13 3
1+ 0.5 1.5

3.5 Instrument for data collection

The major research instrument used is the questionnaires. This was appropriately moderated. The

secretaries were administered with the questionnaires to complete, with or without disclosing

their identities. The questionnaire was designed to obtain sufficient and relevant information

from the respondents. The primary data contained information extracted from the questionnaires

in which the respondents were required to give specific answer to a question by ticking in front

of an appropriate answer and administered the same on staff of the two organizations: The

questionnaires contained structured questions which were divided into sections A and B.

3.6 Validation of the research instrument

The questionnaire used as the research instrument was subjected to face its validation. This

research instrument (questionnaire) adopted was adequately checked and validated by the

supervisor his contributions and corrections were included into the final draft of the research

instrument used.
3.7 Method of data analysis

The data collected was not an end in itself but it served as a means to an end. The end being the

use of the required data to understand the various situations it is with a view to making valuable

recommendations and contributions. To this end, the data collected has to be analysis for any

meaningful interpretation to come out with some results. It is for this reason that the following

methods were adopted in the research project for the analysis of the data collected. For a

comprehensive analysis of data collected, emphasis was laid on the use of absolute numbers

frequencies of responses and percentages. Answers to the research questions were provided

through the comparison of the percentage of workers response to each statement in the

questionnaire related to any specified question being considered.

Frequency in this study refers to the arrangement of responses in order of magnitude or

occurrence while percentage refers to the arrangements of the responses in order of their

proportion. The simple percentage method is believed to be straight forward easy to interpret and

understand method.

The researcher therefore chooses the simple percentage as the method to use.

The formula for percentage is shown as.

%= f/N x 100/1

Where f = frequency of respondents response

N = Total Number of response of the sample

100 Consistency in the percentage of respondents for each item

Contained in questions
 CHAPTER FOUR

PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA

4.1 INTRODUCTION

Efforts will be made at this stage to present, analyze and interpret the data collected during the

field survey. This presentation will be based on the responses from the completed questionnaires.

The result of this exercise will be summarized in tabular forms for easy references and analysis.

It will also show answers to questions relating to the research questions for this research study.

The researcher employed simple percentage in the analysis.

4.2 DATA ANALYSIS

The data collected from the respondents were analyzed in tabular form with simple percentage

for easy understanding.

A total of 133(one hundred and thirty three) questionnaires were distributed and 133

questionnaires were returned.

Question 1

Gender distribution of the respondents.

TABLE I

Gender distribution of the respondents.

Response Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative

Percent
Male 77 57.9 57.9 57.9

Female 56 42.1 42.1 100.0

Total 133 100.0 100.0

From the above table it shows that 57.9% of the respondents were male while 42.1% of the

respondents were female.

Question 2

The positions held by respondents

TABLE II

The positions held by respondents

Response Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative

Percent
Married Men 37 27.8 27.8 27.8

Married Women 50 37.6 37.6 65.4

Public Women 23 17.3 17.3 82.7

Youths 23 17.3 17.3 100.0

Total 133 100.0 100.0

The above tables shown that 37 respondents which represents27.8% of the respondents are

married men respondents which represents 37.6% are married women 23 respondents which

represents 17.3% of the respondents are public workers, while 23 respondents which represent

17.3% of the respondents are youths.

4.3 TEST OF HYPOTHESES

There are no causes of poor nutrition in Fagge local government area of Kano State.

Table III

There are no causes of poor nutrition in Fagge local government area of Kano State.

Response Observed Expected Residual

N N
Agreed Strongly 40 33.3 6.8
 Agreed 50 33.3 16.8

Disagreed Strongly 26 33.3 -7.3

Disagreed 17 33.3 -16.3

Test Statistics

There are no causes of poor nutrition in Oredo

Local Governmrnt area of Edo State

Chi-Square 19.331a

Df 3

Asymp. Sig. .000

a. 0 cells (0.0%) have expected frequencies less than 5. The minimum expected cell

frequency is 33.3.

Decision rule:

There researcher therefore reject the null hypothesis there are no causes of poor nutrition in

Fagge local government area of Kano State as the calculated value of 19.331 is greater than the

critical value of 7.82.

Therefore the alternate hypothesis is accepted that there are causes of poor nutrition in Fagge

local government area of Kano State.

4.4 TEST OF HYPOTHESIS TWO

There is no effect of poor nutrition on children who are malnourished

Table V

There is no effect of poor nutrition on children who are malnourished

 Response Observed Expected Residual
N N
Yes 73 44.3 28.7

No 33 44.3 -11.3

Undecided 27 44.3 -17.3

Total 133

Test Statistics

There is no effect of poor nutrition on

children who are malnourished

Chi-Square 28.211a

Df 2

Asymp. Sig. .000

a. O cells (0.0%) have expected frequencies less than 5. The minimum expected cell

frequency is 44.3.

Decision rule:

There researcher therefore rejects the null hypothesis there is no effect of poor nutrition on

children who are malnourished as the calculated value of 28.211 is greater than the critical value

of 5.99

Therefore the alternate hypothesis is accepted that state there is effect of poor nutrition on

children who are malnourished.

 CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5.1 Introduction

It is important to ascertain that the objective of this study was to ascertain effect of malnutrition

on children's health. In the preceding chapter, the relevant data collected for this study were

presented, critically analyzed and appropriate interpretation given. In this chapter, certain

recommendations made which in the opinion of the researcher will be of benefits in addressing

the challenge of malnutrition on children's Health.

5.2 Summary

This study was on effect of malnutrition on children's health. Four objectives were raised which

included: To examine the causes of poor nutrition in Fagge Local Government Area of Kano

State, to examine the effect of poor nutrition on children who are malnourished, to examine the

relationship between anti-natal and post natal nutrition, to examine the academic performance of

children suffering from poor nutrition. In line with these objectives, two research hypotheses

were formulated and two null hypotheses were posited. The total population for the study is 200

residents in Fagge local government of Kano state. The researcher used questionnaires as the

instrument for the data collection. Descriptive Survey research design was adopted for this study.

A total of 133 respondents made married men, married women, public workers and youths were

used for the study. The data collected were presented in tables and analyzed using simple

percentages and frequencies.

5.3 Conclusion

Based on results, it was concluded that the infant mortality and extended unknown adverse effect

was caused mainly by vitamin deficiency. According to these results, malnutrition shows almost
34% among other problems faced in children. Infant mortality and long term effect (unknown) in

children is a burning issue it is concluded that malnutrition have a role in child mortality. And

also, it has extensive adverse effect of 7.62 to 7.81%, this has great impact in a country's

economy. Furthermore, malnutrition from other diseases has high proportion.

5.4 Recommendation

That efforts for redressing child under nutrition issues should focus on factors associated with

development outcomes such as maternal income, maternal education, and the creation of

employment or economic engagements that do not compromise important child care practices

such as breastfeeding. Such efforts should also have clearly thought out strategies for targeting

children in single parent households and in elucidating factors that place boy children at greater

risk for malnutrition compared to girl children.

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 APPENDIX
QUESTIONNAIRE
INSTRUCTION
Please tick or fill in where necessary as the case may be.
Section A
(1) Gender of respondent
A Male { }
B Female { }
(2) Age distribution of respondents
a) 15-20 { }
b) 21-30 { }
c) 31-40 { }
d) 41-50 { }
e) 51 and above { }
(3) Marital status of respondents?
(a) Married { }
(b) single { }
(c) divorce { }
(4) Educational qualification off respondents
(a) SSCE/OND { }
(b) HND/BSC { }
(c) PGD/MSC { }
(d) PHD
Others…………………………
(5) How long have you been in Nassarawa LGA
(b) 3-5 years { }
(c) 6-11 years { }
(d) 11 years and above...
(6) Position held by the respondent in Fagge LGA
(a) Married men { }
(b) Married women { }
(c) Public worker { }
(d) Youth { }
(7) How long have you been in Fagge LGA?
(a) 0-2 years { }
(b) 3-5 years { }
(c) 6-11 years { }
(d) 11 years and above...
SECTION B
(8) There is no vitamin deficiency in Fagge local government of Kano State.
(a) Agrees { }
(b) Strongly agreed { }
(c) Disagreed { }
(d) Strongly disagreed { }
(9) There are causes of vitamin deficiency
(a) Agreed { }
(b) Strongly agreed { }
(c) Disagreed { }
(d) Strongly disagreed { }
10) Only poor are affected by vitamin deficiency?
(a) Agreed { }
(b) Strongly agreed { }
(c) Disagreed { }
(d) Strongly disagreed { }
(11) vitamin deficiency affect academic performance of student
(a) Agreed { }
(b) Strongly agreed { }
(c) Disagreed { }
(d) Strongly disagreed { }
(12) vitamin deficiency affect both poor and rich?
(a) Agreed { }
(b) Strongly agreed { }
(c) Disagreed { }
(d) Strongly disagreed { }
(13) Parents are not caring for their children health
(a) Agreed { }
(b) Strongly agreed { }
(c) Disagreed { }
(d) Strongly disagreed { }
(14) Very rare to see food with balance diet in Fagge Local Governemt?
(a) Agreed { }
(b) Strongly agreed { }
(c) Disagreed { }
(d) Strongly disagreed { }
(15) Not all children in Fagge local government are affected by vitamin deficiency?
(a) Agreed { }
(b) Strongly agreed { }
(c) Disagreed { }
(d) Strongly disagreed { }