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Exploring Hygiene Behaviours Among Child Caregivers in Rural Malawi Using Multilevel Logistic Models

Author

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  • Collins Anusa

    (Department of Mathematics, Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences, Blantyre 303, Malawi)

  • Salule Joseph Masangwi

    (Centre for Water, Sanitation, Hygiene and Appropriate Technology Development, Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences, Blantyre 303, Malawi)

  • Kondwani Chidziwisano

    (Centre for Water, Sanitation, Hygiene and Appropriate Technology Development, Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences, Blantyre 303, Malawi)

  • Tracy Morse

    (Centre for Sustainable Development, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1XJ, UK)

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the factors influencing food hygiene behaviours among child caregivers in Chikwawa district, Malawi. This research focused on three specific hygiene behaviours: keeping utensils on an elevated surface, using soap to clean kitchen utensils, and washing hands with soap at critical times. These practises are known to contribute to the reduction in diarrhoeal disease. To understand these behaviours, this study utilised multilevel binary logistic models to examine variations at both the household and village levels. The findings reveal that educational background, age group, occupation, self-confidence, intervention, self-will, and perception were the most significant factors influencing food hygiene behaviours. Notably, there were significant variations at the village level ( p < 0.00001), while no significant variations were observed at the household level ( p > 0.1). Additionally, caregivers from areas where interventions were implemented showed a positive response to these interventions.

Suggested Citation

  • Collins Anusa & Salule Joseph Masangwi & Kondwani Chidziwisano & Tracy Morse, 2025. "Exploring Hygiene Behaviours Among Child Caregivers in Rural Malawi Using Multilevel Logistic Models," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 22(5), pages 1-17, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:22:y:2025:i:5:p:801-:d:1659891
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Karimli, Leyla & Lecoutere, Els & Wells, Christine R. & Ismayilova, Leyla, 2021. "More assets, more decision-making power? Mediation model in a cluster-randomized controlled trial evaluating the effect of the graduation program on women's empowerment in Burkina Faso," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 137(C).
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