Assessment of Dietary Intake and Nutritional Status of Pregnant Adolescent Girls in Three Districts in Sierra Leone

Abstract

Background: Adolescent pregnancy is a global public health issue that affects both developed and developing countries, including Sierra Leone. Adolescent girls in Sierra Leone face distinct nutritional challenges that are sometimes exacerbated by socio-economic factors such as poverty, cultural norms and illiteracy. Aim: This study assessed dietary intake and nutritional status among pregnant adolescent girls in Freetown, Kambia and Moyamba districts in Sierra Leone. Methodology: A mixed-methods approach was used among 502 randomly selected pregnant adolescent girls aged 10–19 years. Dietary intake was assessed using a 24-hour recall, and anthropometric assessment was conducted using Body Mass Index (BMI) and Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC). Data were analysed using SPSS version 15. Results: Rice was the dominant cereal consumed across the three districts, with total reported consumption of 140,850 g. Cassava was the main root and tuber consumed, with the highest amount reported in Moyamba. Fish, particularly fresh and smoked fish, was the main animal-source protein, while beans and groundnuts contributed to plant-based protein intake. Leafy vegetables were consumed more frequently in Moyamba, whereas fruit intake was generally low across all districts. Snack consumption, including bread, cake and plantain, was more evident in Freetown and Kambia. BMI findings indicated that most participants were within the normal range, although Kambia had the highest proportion of underweight participants and Freetown had a higher proportion of obesity. MUAC findings also showed normal measurements for most participants, with moderate undernutrition present in all districts. Conclusion: The findings indicate district-level differences in dietary patterns and nutritional status, highlighting the need for context-specific nutrition education and support for pregnant adolescent girls.