The Impact of Maternal Education and Socioeconomic Status on Child Health Outcomes in Edo State, Nigeria
Usoro U.T Edidiongobong
*
Department of Pediatrics, University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Nigeria.
Ehikwe, G. Ifesinachi
Department of Pediatrics, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria.
Egwowa M. Elo-Oghene
Department of Internal Medicine, Lily Hospitals Limited, Edo State, Nigeria.
Enioya, G. Eshiemah
Department of Pediatrics, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria.
Etukokwu Ijeoma U.
Evolving Women Foundation Department of Prevention, Care and Treatment (Public Health), Rivers State, Nigeria.
Isuekebhor O. Cynthia
Department of Pediatrics, Narrow Way Hospital, Edo State, Nigeria.
Chukwuneke M. Osita
Department Surgery, Plateau State Specialist Hospital, Nigeria.
Ikponmwosa V. Ebuwa
Department of Internal Medicine, Edo Specialist Hospital, Edostate, Nigeria.
Okolie C. Obinna
Patricare Specialist Hospital, Portharcourt, Nigeria.
Akpa N. Kenneth
Department of Internal Medicine, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Nigeria.
Akhaine J. Precious
Department of Internal Medicine, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The understanding of child health has significantly evolved over the years. Modern perspectives recognize that a healthy childhood is shaped by a complex interplay of factors—biological, social, environmental, and psychological. The study aimed to understand the impact of maternal education and socioeconomic status on child health. The study further sought to investigate the impact of maternal attitude and health practices on child health in a Nigeria context. The study was conducted in the 21-bed sitter pediatric department of Irrua Specialist Teaching hospital, Irrua (ISTH), Edo state Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study was employed from October 2023 to April 2024. A total of 60 questionnaires were distributed for collection of data. From the study, it was seen that all mothers have received various degree of literacy with majority (46.70%) of the women having gotten tertiary level of education and the least (16.70%) having primary level of education with 90% of the women displaying good knowledge. More of the women were middle income earners (60%) while just a few (20%) were high income earners. The study found a positive correlation between maternal attitudes and socio-demographic characteristics, with most women demonstrating favorable attitudes. These findings highlight the importance of maternal education and socioeconomic status in shaping child health outcomes, with potential implications for policy and intervention strategies. The relevance of this study will help all and sundry to step up in contributing their role in reducing children mortality and improve overall quality health care delivery.
Keywords: Maternal education, socioeconomic status, child health, morbidity