Abstract:
Background: Micronutrient deficiencies are prevalent among women of reproductive age
in developing countries, posing several adverse effects on the health, function, and survival
of women. This community-based cross-sectional study conducted in Bandarban,
Bangladesh, aimed to assess women's dietary diversity and its association with sociodemographic factors.
Methods: A total of 200 women of reproductive age (15-49 years) participated, selected
through random household sampling based on inclusion criteria and consent for
participation. Data was collected using structured questionnaires. The MDD-W indicator
evaluated the consumption of ten food groups, with a diversified diet defined as consuming
five or more groups. Descriptive statistics and Pearson’s Chi-square tests, were employed
to explore associations (p<0.05) between socio-economic factors and dietary diversity.
Results: Among the studied sample, 8.5% women were illiterate, while primary education
is most prevalent at 29.5%. Marriage is prevalent, with 96.0% of women were married,
primarily in household duties, and 68.5% classified as housewives. A significant portion,
50.5%, experiences financial constraints, with a monthly income of less than 20,000
Bangladeshi Taka. Pearson’s Chi-square test showed significant associations (p<0.05)
between several socio-demographic factors such as marital status, number of child and
minimum dietary diversity for women (MDD-W). However, age group, education,
employment, and household income level do not significantly influence MDD-W
attainment(p>0.05).
Conclusion: The majority of the studied women have a diversified diet, indicating a
positive dietary diversity status within the sample population. However, a notable
percentage still lacks dietary diversity, suggesting a potential area for targeted interventions
to promote healthier eating habits and nutritional diversity among this group
