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VOL. 11, ISSUE 3 (2026)
Assessing public knowledge of micronutrient importance and their role in disease prevention: The Jigjiga city
Authors
Ziad Ahmed, Ahmed Mahamud Omer, Nimo Daud Yasin, Muse Mohamed Ibrahim
Abstract
Micronutrients essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, vitamin A,
zinc, iodine, and folate are fundamental to human health, supporting immune
function, growth, and disease prevention. Despite their importance, awareness
and intake remain suboptimal in many low-resource settings. This study aimed to
assess public knowledge, dietary practices, and the perceived role of
micronutrients in health maintenance and disease prevention in Jigjiga, a city
in Ethiopia’s Somali Region. Using a cross-sectional survey design,
quantitative data were collected from 152 randomly selected households across
four kebeles. Structured interviews captured information on socio-demographic
profiles, awareness of micronutrient functions and sources, consumption
frequency, use of supplements, and perceived health impacts. Results showed
that only 45.4% of respondents were aware of micronutrients and their health
benefits. Consumption of micronutrient-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables,
and animal products were irregular, with 57.2% rarely or never consuming them.
Nearly one-third of respondents or their family members had been diagnosed with
deficiencies, and many reported symptoms linked to nutrient gaps, including
fatigue, poor vision, and frequent infections. The study also found
inconsistencies in preventive practices only 28.3% regularly used supplements,
and a significant proportion lacked confidence in their diets'
disease-preventive value. Education level, occupation, and access to reliable
health information emerged as influential factors in shaping knowledge and
behavior. Major sources of nutrition information included schools, media, and
community health workers, though 21.1% of participants reported receiving no
information at all. These findings
highlight the urgent need for expanded, culturally relevant nutrition education
programs and improved access to micronutrient-rich foods and supplements.
Public health interventions must address existing knowledge gaps, economic constraints,
and healthcare access limitations to improve community health outcomes.
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Pages:95-103
How to cite this article:
Ziad Ahmed, Ahmed Mahamud Omer, Nimo Daud Yasin, Muse Mohamed Ibrahim "Assessing public knowledge of micronutrient importance and their role in disease prevention: The Jigjiga city". International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition, Vol 11, Issue 3, 2026, Pages 95-103
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