Knowledge and Attitude towards Fortified Food among Women and its Associated Factors in Yeka Sub City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 2024.

Abstract Background: Micronutrient deficiencies are a significant public health issue globally, including in Ethiopia. Fortified foods have emerged as a viable solution to combat these deficiencies. Women play a critical role in their families' nutritional health by making dietary choices and food-related decisions. Therefore, understanding women's knowledge and attitudes toward fortified foods is essential for the effective implementation of food fortification programs. This study aimed to assess women's knowledge and attitudes toward fortified foods in Yeka Sub City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 2024, along with exploring the associated factors. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among women in Yeka Sub City, Addis Ababa. The study employed multi-stage cluster sampling method to select representative HHs from selected woredas. A total of 521 women were included in the study. The data was collected by pre-tested interview-administered questionnaire. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Descriptive and analytic analyses were estimated. Both Crude and adjusted odds ratio were estimated using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression model respectively. Variables with P value less than 0.05 in final model were reported as significant factor associated with Knowledge and Attitude. Result: In this study, 521 women were participated with response rate of 94%. 31.5% (CI: 27.3-35.7) of the respondents had good knowledge and 52% (CI: 48-58.6) had a positive attitude towards fortified food. Age, education, occupation, having young children, and having one's own income were predictors of knowledge of fortified foods. Income and knowledge were associated with a positive attitude towards fortified foods. The most common sources of information on fortified foods were radio, TV and the internet. Conclusion: The level of knowledge and attitude regarding fortified food among women was low. Education, occupation and having young children may increase women's exposure to information about fortified foods and their health benefits, while having one's own income may provide more autonomy in food purchasing decisions. Public education and awareness campaigns, targeted towards specific groups, and leveraging media platforms could be effective in improving knowledge and attitude towards fortified foods.