Maternal knowledge and feeding practices in the prevention of child malnutrition: an analysis based on Nola Pender's theory

The research focused on analysing child malnutrition from the perspective of Nola Pender's Health Promotion Model, which was geared towards disease prevention and the promotion of healthy lifestyles. This model made it possible to understand that health was a dynamic process influenced by biological, social, cultural and environmental factors and that, in the case of children, malnutrition was a complex problem with multiple determinants. The presentation highlighted that child malnutrition could occur in acute and chronic forms, associated with both caloric and protein deficiencies, with serious consequences for children's growth, cognitive development and school performance. It also showed that poverty, social inequalities, lack of food education and limited maternal knowledge were the main risk factors. From this perspective, the Pender Model provided a theoretical framework to guide preventive actions that promote health care and encourage appropriate feeding practices. Finally, it was concluded that the role of mothers was decisive in preventing malnutrition, as their knowledge directly influenced the selection, preparation and frequency of food provided to children. It was also highlighted that health education, access to basic resources and professional support were essential elements in reducing the prevalence of malnutrition and ensuring full development in childhood.