Published in PLOS One on 2026-07-02, this study is presented as an attributed evidence briefing. The excerpts below are the original researchers’ words, reproduced under their Creative Commons Attribution licence. Health Signal has selected the abstract and, where needed, opening background paragraphs; the complete methods, results, limitations and references remain in the linked paper.
Original authors: Tsehay Negash, Amelo Bolka, Assefa Philipos Kare, Fentaw Wassie Feleke, Tafese Bosha
Source: PLOS One • DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0352894
Read the complete primary study ↗ · Creative Commons Attribution licence
From the researchers
Abstract
Growth monitoring and promotion (GMP) can be used to address developmental halting before a child’s health deteriorates. However, there hasn’t been much research done on the GMP uptake in the Wondo district.
The study aimed to evaluate GMP uptake and its associated factors among children aged under two years old in the Wondo District in 2024.
A cross-sectional design was conducted using random sampling. The data were analysed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression with a p-value of less than 0.05 were used.
GMP uptake was 14.2%. Household income above $32 monthly [AOR = 4.857, 95% CI: (2.009–11.744), read and write [AOR = 10.625, 95% CI: (2.667–42.334)], primary education [AOR = 9.067, 95% CI: (3.218–25.546)], secondary and above[AOR = 8.060, 95% CI: (2.952–22.007)], ANC follow up, [AOR = 2.871, 95% CI: (1.158–7.120)], health facility delivery [AOR = 4.037, 95% CI: (1.706–9.554)], PNC follow up [AOR = 4.110, 95% CI: (1.898–8.900)], maternal community conversation [AOR = 4.162, 95% CI: (1.974–8.775)], and family health cards utilization [AOR = 6.825, 95% CI: (2.935–15.867)] were significant variables.
The GMP uptake was 14.2%. ANC follow-up, institutional delivery, PNC follow-up, family/child health card utilization, maternal community discussions, mother’s educational status, and household income were associated factors. Community conversations, family health cards, ANC, institutional delivery, and PNC follow-up can improve GMP services.
Introduction
Child malnutrition is a prominent cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five years of age, contributing to a vicious cycle of poor health consequences [1]. It continues to be one of the most significant global public health issues, especially in low- and middle-income (LMIC) nations where access to resources and medical facilities is usually limited [2]. Stunting, wasting, and micronutrient deficiencies are some of the manifestations of malnutrition, which all have significant and frequently irreversible impacts on a child’s physical and mental development. These factors exacerbate health inequities by impeding a child’s capacity to grow and making them more vulnerable to infectious disease [3].
A healthy diet is essential for optimal physical growth, immune system function, and cognitive development throughout these critical years [4]. A child’s first 1,000 days of life, from conception to their second birthday, are generally regarded as a critical window for addressing malnutrition. The groundwork for long-term development, growth, and health is established during this time [5]. On the other hand, malnutrition during this crucial stage may result in permanent effects like decreased educational achievement, decreased adult economic productivity, and a higher chance of developing chronic illnesses in later life [6].
Reading this evidence
Use the full paper to check the study design, participant selection, comparator and outcome definitions before drawing a practical conclusion. An association does not by itself show cause and effect. A reported performance measure needs its denominator and uncertainty. A finding from a particular facility, sample or time period should retain that scope when it is discussed elsewhere.
This briefing makes the source accessible within the wider hospital systems desk. It does not assess an individual patient or certify a product. When considering relevance to another health system, examine the original authors’ account of context and limitations, then seek local implementation evidence. The related reporting below provides other studies to read alongside this one; it is a topic connection, rather than a claim that their results are directly comparable.
© 2026 Tsehay Negash, Amelo Bolka, Assefa Philipos Kare, Fentaw Wassie Feleke, Tafese Bosha. Excerpts reproduced under CC BY. Selection, formatting and contextual notes by Health Signal. The researchers are the authors of the source study, not members of Health Signal’s staff.
Explore connected evidence
- Evidence brief: Exclusive breast feeding practice and associated factors among Rural and Urban mothers of child aged 0–6 months in Tahtay Maichew District of Tigray, Ethiopia, 2023/2024: Comparative cross sectional study
- Evidence brief: Prevalence of undernutrition and its associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care service in public hospitals in Mogadishu, Somalia
- Evidence brief: Assessment of trends and determinants of under-five mortality among children born to older women: Evidence from Ethiopian demographic and health surveys
