Abstract: The study examined factors contributing to the low uptake of health information on malnutrition prevention and control among households with children under five in Cyanika Sector, Rwanda. Specifically, it assessed the extent of health information utilization, identified key barriers to its uptake, and explored the influence of socio-demographic characteristics on the application of nutrition-related information. A qualitative case study design was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews with caregivers, local leaders, and health counsellors, alongside a review of relevant documents. The findings revealed that the utilization of health information on malnutrition prevention remained limited due to several interconnected factors. These included low levels of caregiver education, cultural beliefs and practices, inadequate access to media and communication channels, irregular visits by health workers, financial constraints, and weak community participation in nutrition-related initiatives. In addition, socio-demographic characteristics such as caregiver age, household headship, distance from health facilities, and household attitudes toward nutrition significantly influenced the extent to which health information was understood and applied. The study further established that households with educated caregivers, female-headed households, and those located closer to health facilities demonstrated better knowledge of nutrition practices and were more likely to consistently implement recommended malnutrition prevention measures. These findings highlight the importance of addressing not only information dissemination but also the broader socio-economic and structural conditions that affect health information utilization. The study concluded that improving the uptake of nutrition information requires a comprehensive and integrated approach. Effective interventions should combine nutrition education with economic empowerment initiatives, culturally sensitive communication strategies, improved access to food and health services, and strengthened community-based outreach programs. By addressing the underlying barriers to information utilization, stakeholders can enhance caregivers’ capacity to adopt recommended nutrition practices and reduce malnutrition among children under five. The study recommends strengthening community nutrition education, promoting caregiver empowerment, integrating livelihood support into nutrition programs, improving healthcare accessibility, and developing culturally appropriate health education materials to support sustainable child nutrition outcomes in Cyanika Sector.
Keywords: Low Uptake, Health Information, Prevention, Malnutrition, Under 5 Children, Cyanika Sector.
Title: Factors Contributing to Low Uptake of Health Information on Malnutrition Prevention and Control Methods among Household of Under 5 Children in Cyanika Sector, Rwanda 2025
Author: Ms. Niwewanjye Yvette, Dr. Fisseh Berehe
International Journal of Healthcare Sciences
ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)
Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026
Page No: 266-280
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 24-June-2026
