Protein energy malnutrition in Coloured children in Western Township, Johannesburg. Part I. The ecological background

One hundred Coloured families selected at random from the 'old' and 'new' areas of Western Township in Johannesburg were investigated. The mothers were interviewed to gain some insight into the 'ecology of malnutrition' in this community. The results of this sociological survey revealed numerous socio economic problems in both areas, but more so in the 'old' area. Low earnings and overcrowding were common in the 'old' area. In both areas, it was found that breast feeding was not continued for long. Although in both areas mothers seemed well informed about child care, striking discrepancies between knowledge and practice were noted. It is suggested that an integrated programme involving the community and directed toward multiple problems would be more efficacious than a simple nutritional programme in eradicating malnutrition in this community.