Abstract

Using data from the 2001 Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)-Multiple Indicators Cluster Survey, this study examines association between maternal education and child nutritional status in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Analyses are based on chi-square tests and logit generalized estimating equations. The results showed that maternal education difference in child nutritional status depends on the nutritional status indicator used. Maternal education is associated with lower prevalence of simultaneous multiple-malnutrition. In contrast, the prevalence of single malnutrition indicators “stunting only” or “wasting only” is higher among children whose mother has secondary education or higher. However, depending on the indicator, the association disappears or appears only after controlling for the province of residence. Therefore, any study on the determinants of children nutritional status should be based on a clearly defined nutritional indicator. In addition, only national policies integrating education, access to food and use of health service are pivotal to improve child health and nutrition.

Key words: Nutritional status, under-five children, maternal education, Democratic Republic of Congo, socioeconomic factors, conflict affected area.