International Journal of Social Science Research (IJSSR)

Dietary Practices and Nutritional Status among Adult Tuberculosis Patients in Kirinyaga County, Kenya

Background: Undernutrition remains a major challenge among adults with tuberculosis (TB), particularly in low- and middle-income countries where food insecurity and suboptimal dietary practices are common. Poor nutritional status may compromise immunity, tolerance to treatment, and recovery. This study assessed dietary practices and nutritional status among adult TB patients in Kirinyaga County, Kenya. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in public health facilities with functional TB clinics across all five sub-counties of Kirinyaga County. A total of 246 adult TB patients aged 18 to 70 years were enrolled. Data were collected using interviewer-administered structured questionnaires and complemented by focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Dietary practices were assessed using meal frequency, dietary diversity scores, and a 24-hour dietary recall. Nutritional status was assessed using body mass index (BMI). Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Results: Participants were predominantly male (60.6%) and aged 35 to 44 years (30.9%). More than half reported consuming three or more meals per day (55.3%); however, dietary diversity was largely low to medium, with 40.2% consuming three or fewer food groups. Majority (59.8%) reported skipping meals due to lack of food. About 45.5% were underweight based on BMI classification. Conclusion: Undernutrition, limited dietary diversity are prevalent among adult TB patients in Kirinyaga County. Integrating routine nutritional assessment, strengthened nutrition counselling, and targeted food support within TB care services may improve nutritional outcomes and support recovery. Keywords: dietary practices; nutritional status; tuberculosis; Kenya