The Impact of Integrated Health and Nutrition Interventions on the Prevalence of Vitamin A Deficiency among Pre-school and School Children in Ethiopia
Sisay Sinamo *
World Vision International, East Africa Region, Nairobi, Kenya.
Asrat Dibaba
World Vision International, East Africa Region, Nairobi, Kenya.
Etsub Brhanesillasie
World Vision Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Tigist Mamo
World Vision Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Objectives: The purpose of this article is to inform participants on the impact of integrated health and nutrition interventions (micronutrient supplementation, de-worming, immunization, hygiene and sanitation, IYCF and dietary diversification and modification) on prevalence of Vitamin A deficiency among pre-school and school children. World Vision Ethiopia implemented micronutrient and health project for eight years in partnership with ministry of health.
Methods: A quasi-experimental design was used to conduct a baseline, mid-term and final evaluations. The study covered 8 intervention woredas/districts and two comparison sites. A total of 1197 children under five and 2997 students were examined clinically.
Results: The prevalence of Bitot’s spots among under-five children decreased from 6.4% at baseline survey (BLS) to 1.4% at midterm (MT) and nil at the end of program (EOP). The prevalence of Bitot’s spots in school children dropped from 7.5% at BL to 1.8% at EOP. Similarly, the prevalence of night blindness decreased from 4.9% to 0.1% in pre-school children and from 11.4% to 3.2% in school children. However, the situation remained higher in the comparison sites. Vitamin A supplementation coverage was significantly higher in intervention area compared with the comparison sites (P=0000). The mean consumption of vitamin A rich animal products and fruits is higher among the intervention than the comparison sites (p<0.05). Significant improvements were also noted in the prevention and control of diseases that contribute to the loss of vitamin A.
Conclusions: The project achieved a significant reduction in vitamin A deficiency in the targeted community through undertaking integrated health and nutrition interventions.