Abstract

Within the subsistence economy of rural Malawi, women are largely responsible for most domestic and agricultural labour. Heavy labour, even in advanced stages of pregnancy, is common. The effect of such physical exertion, along with domestic food distribution practices, on the nutrition and health status of pregnant women is unknown. This project will examine the nutritional status of pregnant women engaged in agricultural activities in central Malawi, in relation to their work patterns, level of physical exertion, food intake, and use of prenatal care services. Cultural, social, and economic factors at the community and household levels will be examined. This information will lead to the identification of vulnerable groups and the reasons for their vulnerability. Research results will assist in the development of policies and programs aimed at reducing maternal malnutrition and death, and improving pregnancy outcome.

Post-Project Summary

The study site was located approximately 80 kilometres west of Lilongwe City in the central region of Malawi. Over 200 women from the Chewa tribe participated in the study. Data collection methods included three questionnaires; direct observation and weighing of food intake; observation of time use; anthropometric measurement of mothers; and measurement of birth weight of infants. Results revealed that the study subjects expended a large amount of energy in agricultural and other work while facing food shortages during pregnancy. Average levels of intake and output did not appear to significantly change during the progression of pregnancy. The situation during pregnancy thus put the women at serious nutritional risk, as evidenced by low anthropometric measures, particularly fat stores, and by poor birth outcomes. While iron stores were found to be adequate in the population overall, folate was well below the normal range. In addition to high energy expenditures and limited food availability, pregnant farmers in the study area were not receiving adequate prenatal health care. The project showed the need for increasing year-round food security for pregnant rural farmers and for expanding the availability of prenatal care. The project was part of a network of projects, the others in the network being "88-0233 Determinants of Protein-Energy Malnutrition (Malawi)" and "87-0192 Growth Faltering (Malawi)".

Recipient Institution(s)