Paternal Nutritional Knowledge and Its Effectiveness in Shaping Maternal Health and Fetal Outcomes in Rural Ghana

Abstract

This study examined the influence of paternal nutritional knowledge on maternal health and fetal outcomes in Mamprugu‑Moaduri and Gushegu Districts of Northern Ghana using a quasi‑experimental mixed‑methods design. A total of 320 participants (200 fathers, 120 mothers) were recruited. Quantitative results showed moderate paternal nutritional knowledge (mean score = 58.3%, SD = 12.5), with significant associations between higher knowledge and improved maternal dietary diversity (β = 0.34, p < 0.05). Maternal anemia prevalence declined from 41% to 32% in the intervention group compared with 43% in controls (χ² = 6.21, p = 0.013), while adequate gestational weight gain improved to 68% versus 52% (χ² = 7.84, p = 0.005). Fetal outcomes also improved, with mean birth weight rising from 2.82 kg to 3.12 kg (t = 2.97, p = 0.003) and low birth weight incidence decreasing from 18% to 11%. Qualitative findings reinforced these results, highlighting fathers’ roles in household food allocation. The study underscores the value of father-inclusive nutrition interventions in rural Ghana.