Controlling Micronutrient Deficiencies in Asia
Mason, John; Mannar, Venkatesh; Mock, Nancy | June 1999
Abstract
Vitamin A deficiency (VAD), iodine deficiency disorders (IDDs), and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) affect large numbers of the populations in Asia, often overlapping. Clinical VAD is probably declining, but subclinical VAD is common and carries significant mortality risk. IDDs fall when there are effective iodized salt programs. IDA persists unchanged at high levels, particularly affecting women and children. Deficiency control programs—notably high-dose vitamin A capsules sixmonthly for children and iodized salt—are under way in many areas, and need to be sustained and made universal. Fortification is a key long-run solution, and multiple fortification and supplementation need to be researched and implemented. Better information is needed on programs and their impact; even baseline data are scarce. Public–private coalitions should be fostered with the food industry and others concerned. Capacity-building for the range of actions for controlling deficiencies
should be an early next priority.
Citation
Mason, John; Mannar, Venkatesh; Mock, Nancy. 1999. Controlling Micronutrient Deficiencies in Asia. © Asian Development Bank. http://hdl.handle.net/11540/5388.Keywords
Reproductive Health
Nutrition and Health Care
Maternal and Child Health
Family Health
Prenatal Care
Nutrition Programs
Child Nutrition
State and nutrition
Food policy
Nutrition policy
Maternity
Health Aspects Of Poverty
Prenatal Care
Nutrition Programs
Child Nutrition
Child Development
Social Conditions
Socially Disadvantaged Children
Nutrition and state
Food policy
Nutrition policy
Cost and standard of living
Economic conditions
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