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Nguyen PH, Neupane S, Pant A, Avula R, Herforth A. Diet Quality Among Mothers and Children in India: Roles of Social and Behavior Change Communication and Nutrition-Sensitive Social Protection Programs. J Nutr 2024:S0022-3166(24)00407-3. [PMID: 39053606 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2024.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited evidence exists on determinants of maternal and child diet quality. OBJECTIVES This study examined the role of social and behavior change communication (SBCC) and nutrition-sensitive social protection (NSSP) programs on maternal and child diet quality. METHODS Data were from cross-sectional phone survey on 6627 Indian mothers that took place in late 2021. The Diet Quality Questionnaire (DQQ) was used to measure maternal and child diet quality, including minimum dietary diversity (MDD), dietary diversity scores (DDSs), noncommunicable disease (NCD)-protect and NCD-risk scores, adherence to dietary guidelines (All-5 and India-All-6), and unhealthy child feeding. Multivariate regression models were used to explore the association between diet indicators and coverage of SBCC and NSSP programs. RESULTS Maternal and child diet quality was suboptimal, with more mothers (57%) achieving MDD than children (23%). SBCC was positively associated with healthy food consumption in children (odds ratio [OR]: 2.14 for MDD; β: 0.60 for DDS and 0.54 for NCD-protect) and mothers (β: 0.38 for DDS and 0.43 for NCD-protect). Cash transfers were associated with healthier diets in mothers (OR: 1.45 for MDD, 1.86 for All-5, and 2.14 for India-All-6; β: 0.43 for DDS and 0.26 for NCD-protect), but less associations noted for children (β: 0.14 for NCD-protect). Receiving food was associated not only with healthier diets in mothers (OR: 1.47 for MDD; β: 0.27 for DDS and 0.33 for NCD-protect) and children (β: 0.19 for DDS and 0.15 for NCD-protect) but also with unhealthy food in children (OR: 1.34). Exposure to multiple programs showed stronger associations with diet quality. CONCLUSIONS SBCC has greater positive impact on child feeding than food and cash transfers, while cash has a stronger association with improved maternal diets. Food and cash are also associated with unhealthy food consumption. Our study underscores the importance of interventions that combine education, resource provision, and targeted support to promote maternal and child diet quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phuong Hong Nguyen
- Nutrition, Diets, and Health Unit, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC, United States.
| | - Sumanta Neupane
- Nutrition, Diets, and Health Unit, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Anjali Pant
- Nutrition, Diets, and Health Unit, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Rasmi Avula
- Nutrition, Diets, and Health Unit, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Anna Herforth
- Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
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Islam MJ, Zobair KM. Do timing and frequency of antenatal care make a difference in maternal micronutrient intake and breastfeeding practices? Insights from a multi-country study in South Asia. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002993. [PMID: 38437199 PMCID: PMC10911624 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Despite the established benefits of vitamins and minerals for maternal and neonatal health, global micronutrient deficiency remains a significant concern. As such, the World Health Organization advocates timely antenatal care (ANC) initiation and micronutrient supplementation for expectant mothers. This study investigates the association between ANC timing and frequency and maternal health behaviours, specifically iron-folic acid (IFA) intake, early breastfeeding initiation, and exclusive breastfeeding among married women in South Asia. By utilizing recent Demographic and Health Survey data, this study focuses on married women aged 15-49 in Bangladesh (N = 966), India (N = 89,472), and Pakistan (N = 1,005), specifically primiparous women with children aged 0-23 months living with the motherMultivariable analysis revealed that women receiving ≥4 ANC visits were more likely to consume IFA ≥90 days compared to those with fewer visits in Bangladesh (AOR: 1.85, 95% CI [1.30, 2.63]), India (AOR: 1.87, 95% CI [1.81, 1.94]), and Pakistan (AOR: 1.92, 95% CI [1.24, 2.97]). Women receiving first ANC in the second or third trimester were less likely to consume IFC for ≥90 days compared to those with first-trimester ANC. While the ANC timing did not significantly influence early breastfeeding initiation, ANC frequency was inversely associated with delayed initiation in all countries. Breastfeeding advice during ANC visits was significantly associated with reduced odds of delayed breastfeeding initiation. Neither ANC timing nor frequency significantly predicted exclusive breastfeeding, except for breastfeeding advice in India. This study highlights the importance of ANC in maternal and child health outcomes. ANC timing and frequency, along with breastfeeding advice during ANC, notably influence maternal IFA consumption and early breastfeeding initiation. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions during ANC visits to enhance maternal and child health practices in low- and middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Jahirul Islam
- Griffith Criminology Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Ministry of Public Administration, Bangladesh Secretariat, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Khondker Mohammad Zobair
- Department of International Business and Asian Studies, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Verger EO, Eymard-Duvernay S, Bahya-Batinda D, Hanley-Cook GT, Argaw A, Becquey E, Diop L, Gelli A, Harris-Fry H, Kachwaha S, Kim SS, Nguyen PH, Saville NM, Tran LM, Zagré RR, Landais E, Savy M, Martin-Prevel Y, Lachat C. Defining a Dichotomous Indicator for Population-Level Assessment of Dietary Diversity Among Pregnant Adolescent Girls and Women: A Secondary Analysis of Quantitative 24-h Recalls from Rural Settings in Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, India, and Nepal. Curr Dev Nutr 2024; 8:102053. [PMID: 38187987 PMCID: PMC10767136 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2023.102053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women of Reproductive Age (MDD-W) indicator was validated as a proxy of micronutrient adequacy among nonpregnant women in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). At that time, indeed, there was insufficient data to validate the indicator among pregnant women, who face higher micronutrient requirements. Objective This study aimed to validate a minimum food group consumption threshold, out of the 10 food groups used to construct MDD-W, to be used as a population-level indicator of higher micronutrient adequacy among pregnant women aged 15-49 y in LMICs. Methods We used secondary quantitative 24-h recall data from 6 surveys in 4 LMICs (Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, India, and Nepal, total n = 4909). We computed the 10-food group Women's Dietary Diversity Score (WDDS-10) and calculated the mean probability of adequacy (MPA) of 11 micronutrients. Linear regression models were fitted to assess the associations between WDDS-10 and MPA. Sensitivity, specificity, and proportion of individuals correctly classified were used to assess the performance of MDD-W in predicting an MPA of >0.60. Results In the pooled sample, median values (interquartile range) of WDDS-10 and MPA were 3 (1) and 0.20 (0.34), respectively, whereas the proportion of pregnant women with an MPA of >0.60 was 9.6%. The WDDS-10 was significantly positively associated with MPA in each survey. Although the acceptable food group consumption threshold varied between 4 and 6 food groups across surveys, the threshold of 5 showed the highest performance in the pooled sample with good sensitivity (62%), very good specificity (81%), and percentage of correctly classified individuals (79%). Conclusions The WDDS-10 is a good predictor of dietary micronutrient adequacy among pregnant women aged 15-49 y in LMICs. Moreover, the threshold of 5 or more food groups for the MDD-W indicator may be extended to all women of reproductive age, regardless of their physiologic status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric O Verger
- MoISA, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Dang Bahya-Batinda
- MoISA, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Giles T. Hanley-Cook
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alemayehu Argaw
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Population and Family Health, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Elodie Becquey
- International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Dakar, Senegal
| | - Loty Diop
- International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Dakar, Senegal
| | - Aulo Gelli
- International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Washington, DC, United States
| | - Helen Harris-Fry
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sunny S Kim
- International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Washington, DC, United States
| | - Phuong Hong Nguyen
- International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Washington, DC, United States
| | | | | | - Rock R Zagré
- International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Dakar, Senegal
| | - Edwige Landais
- MoISA, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Mathilde Savy
- MoISA, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Yves Martin-Prevel
- MoISA, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Carl Lachat
- Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Dewidar O, John J, Baqar A, Madani MT, Saad A, Riddle A, Ota E, Kung'u JK, Arabi M, Raut MK, Klobodu SS, Rowe S, Hatchard J, Busch‐Hallen J, Jalal C, Wuehler S, Welch V. Effectiveness of nutrition counseling for pregnant women in low- and middle-income countries to improve maternal and infant behavioral, nutritional, and health outcomes: A systematic review. CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2023; 19:e1361. [PMID: 38034903 PMCID: PMC10687348 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Background Nutritional counseling, which includes two-way interactive education, has been hypothesized to improve the health and nutritional status of pregnant women, but little is known about the impact such practice of care might have on maternal and infant health and behavioral outcomes of pregnant women living in low income, low-middle income, and upper-middle-income countries (LMIC)s. Objectives We conducted a systematic review to appraise the effectiveness and impact on health equity of two-way nutritional counseling practices in LMICs on maternal and infant behavioral, nutritional, and health outcomes. Search Methods We conducted electronic searches for relevant studies on Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsychInfo, and the Cochrane CENTRAL for randomized and non-randomized trials on the effectiveness of two-way interactive nutritional counseling among pregnant women from the date of database inception up to June 22, 2021. In addition, we searched references of included studies in systematic reviews, gray literature resources, and unpublished studies or reports that satisfied our eligibility criteria using a focused Google search. Selection Criteria We included randomized and non-randomized controlled studies (NRS), controlled before and after, and interrupted time series that assessed the effectiveness of two-way interactive nutrition counseling targeting pregnant women in LMICs. Data Collection and Analysis Data extraction and risk of bias were conducted in duplicate. The risk of bias (ROB) for randomized trials (RCT) was assessed according to the Cochrane Handbook of Systematic Reviews, and ROB for NRS was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS). RCT and NRS were meta-analyzed separately. Main Results Our search identified 6418 records and 52 studies met our inclusion criteria, but only 28 were used in the quantitative analysis. Twenty-eight studies were conducted in Asia, the most in Iran. Eight studies were conducted in Africa. Two-way interactive nutritional counseling during pregnancy may improve dietary caloric intake (mean difference [MD]: 81.65 calories, 95% confidence interval [CI], 15.37-147.93, three RCTs; I 2 = 42%; moderate certainty of evidence using GRADE assessment), may reduce hemorrhage (relative risk [RR]: 0.63; 95% CI, 0.25-1.54, two RCTs; I 2 = 40%; very low certainty of evidence using GRADE assessment), may improve protein (MD: 10.44 g, 95% CI, 1.83-19.05, two RCTs; I 2 = 95%; high certainty of evidence using GRADE assessment), fat intake (MD: 3.42 g, 95% CI, -0.20 to 7.04, two RCTs; I 2 = 0%; high certainty of evidence using GRADE assessment), and may improve gestational weight gain within recommendations (RR: 1.84; 95% CI, 1.10-3.09, three RCTs; I 2 = 69%). Nutrition counseling probably leads to the initiation of breastfeeding immediately after birth (RR: 1.72; 95% CI, 1.42-2.09, one RCT). There was little to no effect on reducing anemia (RR: 0.77; 95% CI, 0.50-1.20, three RCTs; I 2 = 67%; very low certainty of evidence using GRADE assessment) risk of stillbirths (RR: 0.81; 95% CI, 0.52-1.27, three RCTs; I 2 = 0%; moderate certainty of evidence using GRADE assessment) and risk of cesarean section delivery (RR: 0.96; 95% CI, 0.76-1.20, four RCTs; I 2 = 36%; moderate certainty of evidence using GRADE assessment). Authors’ Conclusions Our review highlights improvements in maternal behavioral and health outcomes through interactive nutrition counseling during pregnancy. However, we are uncertain about the effects of nutrition counseling due to the low certainty of evidence and a low number of studies for some key outcomes. Moreover, the effects on health equity remain unknown. More methodologically rigorous trials that focus on a precise selection of outcomes driven by the theory of change of nutrition counseling to improve maternal and infant behavioral and health outcomes and consider equity are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Dewidar
- Bruyere Research InstituteUniversity of OttawaOttawaOntarioCanada
| | - Jessica John
- Eat, Drink and Be HealthyTunapunaTrinidad and Tobago
| | - Aqeel Baqar
- School of Epidemiology and Public HealthUniversity of OttawaOttawaOntarioCanada
| | | | - Ammar Saad
- School of Epidemiology and Public HealthUniversity of OttawaOttawaOntarioCanada
| | - Alison Riddle
- Bruyere Research InstituteUniversity of OttawaOttawaOntarioCanada
| | - Erika Ota
- Global School of Nursing Science, Global Health NursingSt. Luke's International UniversityChuo‐kuJapan
| | | | | | | | - Seth S. Klobodu
- Department of Nutrition and Food ScienceCalifornia State University, ChicoChicoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Sarah Rowe
- Nutrition InternationalOttawaOntarioCanada
| | | | | | - Chowdhury Jalal
- Global Technical Services, Nutrition InternationalOttawaOntarioCanada
| | | | - Vivian Welch
- Bruyere Research InstituteUniversity of OttawaOttawaOntarioCanada
- School of Epidemiology and Public HealthUniversity of OttawaOttawaOntarioCanada
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5
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Jugha VT, Anchang JA, Taiwe GS, Kimbi HK, Anchang-Kimbi JK. Association between malaria and undernutrition among pregnant women at presentation for antenatal care in health facilities in the Mount Cameroon region. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292550. [PMID: 37824491 PMCID: PMC10569528 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
In resource limited settings, malaria and undernutrition are major public health problems in pregnancy. Therefore, this study assessed the association between malaria infection and undernutrition among pregnant women in the Mount Cameroon area. This cross-sectional study enrolled 1,014 pregnant women consecutively over a year. A structured questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic information and clinical data. Maternal nutrition was assessed using dietary diversity (DD). Peripheral blood samples collected were used for the diagnosis of malaria parasitaemia by microscopy whereas haemoglobin (Hb) levels were determined using an Hb meter. Logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with malaria and dietary diversity. The prevalence of malaria infection and undernutrition was 17.8% and 89.6% respectively. In addition, of those infected with malaria, geometric mean parasite density was 301/μL of blood (range: 40-9280) while mean DD score was 3.57±0.82 (range: 1-7). The odds of being infected with malaria parasitaemia was highest among women enrolled in the rainy season (OR = 1.58, P = 0.043), who were farmers (OR = 2.3, P = 0.030), had a household size of < 4 individuals (OR = 1.48, P = 0.026) and who were febrile (OR = 1.87, P < 0.001). Also, attending clinic visits in Mutengene Medical Centre (OR = 2.0, P = 0.012) or Buea Integrated Health Centre (OR = 2.9, P = < 0.001), being < 25 years (OR = 2.4, P = 0.002) and a farmer (OR = 10.6, P = 0.024) as well as < 4 clinic visits (OR = 1.62, P = 0.039) were identified as predictors of undernutrition. Furthermore, the association between malaria and DD was statistically significant (P = 0.015). In this study, undernutrition was highly frequent than malaria infection. Thus, there is an urgent need to improve maternal awareness through nutritional counselling and health campaigns on the benefits of consuming at least five food groups. Besides, improved maternal dietary nutrient intake is likely to have impact on the burden of malaria parasite infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Tita Jugha
- Department of Animal Biology and Conservation, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Juliana Adjem Anchang
- International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas, ICARDA, Cairo, Eygpt
| | | | - Helen Kuokuo Kimbi
- Department of Animal Biology and Conservation, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Bamenda, Bamenda, Cameroon
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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Kim SS, Zagré RR, Ouédraogo CT, Sununtnasuk C, Ganaba R, Zafimanjaka MG, Tharaney M, Sanghvi T, Menon P. Intensified Nutrition Interventions in Antenatal Care Services Increased Consumption of Iron and Folic Acid Supplements and Early Breastfeeding Practices in Burkina Faso: Results of a Cluster-Randomized Program Evaluation. J Nutr 2023; 153:3058-3067. [PMID: 37336320 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alive & Thrive supported the Government of Burkina Faso to strengthen the provision of iron and folic acid (IFA) supplementation and interpersonal counseling on maternal nutrition and breastfeeding through antenatal care (ANC) services and community-based contacts in 2 regions. OBJECTIVES We assessed the impacts of intensified nutrition interventions during ANC compared with standard ANC services on intervention coverage and maternal nutrition practices. METHODS A cluster-randomized evaluation compared 40 health center catchment areas in intervention areas with 40 in control areas. Repeated cross-sectional surveys in 2019 and 2021 (960 pregnant women and 1920 women with children 0-5 mo of age per survey round) provided data on impact indicators, intervention exposure, and other factors. We derived difference-in-difference (DID) effect estimates, adjusted for geographic clustering, for maternal dietary diversity, IFA consumption, and early breastfeeding practices. RESULTS More women in intervention areas had 4+ ANC visits (DID: 8.3 percentage points [pps]) and started ANC during the first trimester (DID: 10.5 pp), compared with control areas. Improvements were achieved in exposure to nutrition counseling on dietary diversity (DID: 44.4 pp), food quantity (DID: 42.9 pp), adequate weight gain (DID: 35.1 pp), and breastfeeding (DID: 25.9 pp). Women in intervention areas consumed more IFA supplements during pregnancy (DID: 21 tablets). Early initiation of and exclusive breastfeeding also improved (DID: 17.0 and 8.3 pp, respectively). However, dietary diversity (4 out of 10 food groups) and mean probability of adequacy of micronutrient intake (14%) among pregnant women remained low in both areas. CONCLUSIONS Strengthening maternal nutrition interventions delivered through government ANC services was feasible and effective in improving maternal nutrition practices. Continued efforts to strengthen the delivery and use of maternal nutrition services may be required for greater behavior changes, and to address family support, social norms, and other factors to improve women's diets during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunny S Kim
- Nutrition, Diets, and Health Unit, Poverty, Health and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Washington, DC, United States.
| | - Rock R Zagré
- Nutrition, Diets, and Health Unit, IFPRI, Dakar, Senegal
| | | | - Celeste Sununtnasuk
- Nutrition, Diets, and Health Unit, Poverty, Health and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Washington, DC, United States
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Ickes SB. Incorporating Nutrition Interventions within Antenatal Care Services Can Improve Iron and Folic Acid Supplement Intake among Pregnant Women and Early Breastfeeding Practices. J Nutr 2023; 153:2773-2774. [PMID: 37573012 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Scott B Ickes
- Department of Kinesiology, William and Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia.
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Nguyen PH, Sununtnasuk C, Christopher A, Ash D, Ireen S, Kabir R, Mahmud Z, Ali M, Forissier T, Escobar-DeMarco J, Frongillo EA, Menon P. Strengthening Nutrition Interventions during Antenatal Care Improved Maternal Dietary Diversity and Child Feeding Practices in Urban Bangladesh: Results of a Quasi-Experimental Evaluation Study. J Nutr 2023; 153:3068-3082. [PMID: 37354978 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bangladesh is urbanizing rapidly, facing challenges of malnutrition, low coverage and poor quality of urban nutrition services. OBJECTIVES We assessed the effect of integrating maternal, infant, and young child nutrition interventions, delivered at urban Maternal Neonatal and Child Health facilities, on maternal dietary diversity, iron and folic acid (IFA) and calcium consumption, and child feeding practices. METHODS We used a quasi-experimental design with a nonrandom assignment of 20 health care facilities in Dhaka to intensive and standard service arms. We conducted facility-based observations and community-based surveys at baseline (2020) and endline (2022) (n = 2455 observations and surveys with 1678 pregnant women [PW] or recently delivered women [RDW] at endline). We derived difference-in-difference (DID) estimates, adjusted for characteristics that differed at baseline or endline, and accounted for clustering. RESULTS Exposure to antenatal care (ANC) was similar in both arms: two-thirds of RDW received ANC during the first trimester and three-fourths received ≥4 ANC checkups. Compared to the standard arm, a higher proportion of PW in the intensive arm received counseling on dietary diversity (DID: 45 percentage points [pp]), and a higher proportion of RDW received IFA (25 pp) and calcium supplementation (19 pp), showed adequate weight gain (44 pp), and recorded appropriate child feeding (27 pp). Improvements were greater in the intensive than the standard arm for the number of food groups consumed (DID: 1.1 food groups) and minimum dietary diversity (23 pp); no effect was observed for IFA and calcium consumption during pregnancy. However, effects were observed for early initiation of (20 pp) and exclusive breastfeeding (45 pp), introduction of solid or semisolid foods (28 pp), and egg and/or flesh food consumption (33 pp) among children. Minimum dietary diversity and acceptable diet remained low in both arms. CONCLUSIONS Intensifying nutrition in government-aligned health care services delivered by experienced nongovernmental organization-run facilities is a feasible model to address the urban health gap, nutrition services coverage, and improve practices. The trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03882268.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phuong H Nguyen
- Poverty, Health and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Washington, DC, United States.
| | - Celeste Sununtnasuk
- Poverty, Health and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Washington, DC, United States
| | | | - Deborah Ash
- FHI Solutions, Washington, DC, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jessica Escobar-DeMarco
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, United States
| | - Edward A Frongillo
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Purnima Menon
- Poverty, Health and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Washington, DC, United States
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9
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Flax VL, Bose S, Escobar-DeMarco J, Frongillo EA. Changing maternal, infant and young child nutrition practices through social and behaviour change interventions implemented at scale: Lessons learned from Alive & Thrive. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2023:e13559. [PMID: 37735818 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Alive & Thrive (A&T) is an initiative designed to advance the implementation of maternal, infant and young child nutrition (MIYCN) social and behaviour change (SBC) at a large scale. The aims of this research were to: (1) describe A&T's SBC implementation processes and their impact based on a review of programme documents and peer-reviewed publications and (2) gather lessons learned from key informant interviews (N = 23) with A&T staff and stakeholders in Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, India, Nigeria and Vietnam. A&T's SBC approach used interpersonal communication, community mobilization and mass media to address knowledge gaps, strengthen self-efficacy and shift social norms. The initiative used data for design and evaluation and facilitated scale and sustainability through close collaboration with governments and other stakeholders. A&T's approach increased exclusive breastfeeding, minimum meal frequency of children and use of iron and folic acid tablets by pregnant women, but had mixed impacts on early initiation of breastfeeding and maternal and child dietary diversity. Multiple SBC channels and frequent contacts strengthened the impact of SBC on MIYCN practices. Lessons learned included: using existing large-scale platforms for interpersonal communication, improving counselling skills of health workers, delivering timely tailored messages, engaging key influencers to take specific actions, using research to address underlying behavioural concerns and maximize mass media reach and frequency, using simple memorable messages and employing additional channels to reach low media coverage areas. A&T developed and implemented at-scale MIYCN SBC in multiple countries, providing lessons learned about intervention strategies, engagement of influencers and mass media campaign development, which governments and other implementers can adapt and replicate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie L Flax
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sujata Bose
- Alive & Thrive, FHI Solutions, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Jessica Escobar-DeMarco
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of North Carolina Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Edward A Frongillo
- Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
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10
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Sanghvi TG, Nguyen PH, Forissier T, Ghosh S, Zafimanjaka M, Walissa T, Mahmud Z, Kim S. Comprehensive Approach for Improving Adherence to Prenatal Iron and Folic Acid Supplements Based on Intervention Studies in Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, and India. Food Nutr Bull 2023; 44:183-194. [PMID: 37309106 DOI: 10.1177/03795721231179570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization recommends daily iron and folic acid (IFA) supplementation during pregnancy, but consumption remains low, and high prevalence of anemia among pregnant women (PW) persists. OBJECTIVES This study aims to (1) examine factors at the health system, community, and individual levels, which influence adherence to IFA supplements; and (2) describe a comprehensive approach for designing interventions to improve adherence based on lessons learned from 4 country experiences. METHODS We conducted literature search, formative research, and baseline surveys in Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, and India and applied health systems strengthening and social and behavior change principles to design interventions. The interventions addressed underlying barriers at the individual, community, and health system levels. Interventions were further adapted for integration into existing large-scale antenatal care programs through continuous monitoring. RESULTS Key factors related to low adherence were lack of operational protocols to implement policies, supply chain bottlenecks, low capacity to counsel women, negative social norms, and individual cognitive barriers. We reinforced antenatal care services and linked them with community workers and families to address knowledge, beliefs, self-efficacy, and perceived social norms. Evaluations showed that adherence improved in all countries. Based on implementation lessons, we developed a program pathway and details of interventions for mobilizing health systems and community platforms for improving adherence. CONCLUSION A proven process for designing interventions to address IFA supplement adherence will contribute to achieving global nutrition targets for anemia reduction in PW. This evidence-based comprehensive approach may be applied in other countries with high anemia prevalence and low IFA adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Sunny Kim
- International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington DC, USA
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Kushi EN, Belachew T, Tamiru D. Antenatal care follow-up was significantly associated with a higher probability of high dietary diversity score among pregnant women in okra-producing areas of western Ethiopia: proportional odds model. Food Nutr Res 2023; 67:9608. [PMID: 37533449 PMCID: PMC10392863 DOI: 10.29219/fnr.v67.9608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Dietary diversity is important for pregnant women since it has been associated with nutrient adequacy. It is very crucial to ensure optimal fetal health and development. There is no evidence at the community level on the magnitude of dietary diversity and its predictors among pregnant women in okra-producing areas of western Ethiopia. Objective This study aimed to assess the level of dietary diversity and its associated factors among pregnant women. Design A community-based cross-sectional study was employed among randomly selected 224 pregnant women in western Ethiopia. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. The qualitative open 24-h recall was used to assess the level of dietary diversity. Ordinal logistic regression analyses were used by SPSS version 25. An adjusted proportional odds ratio along with a 95% confidence interval [CI] was computed to measure the strengths of the association at a P ≤ 0.05. Result This study revealed that more than one-fourth, 64 (28.6%), of the respondents were found to have high dietary diversity scores. Antenatal Care [ANC] visits (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 2.10, [95% CI: 1.13, 3.90], P = 0.01), changing food intake (AOR = 2.97, [95% CI: 1.16, 3.67], P = 0.002), and being food secure household (AOR = 2.63, [95% CI: 1.38, 5.00], P = 0.003) were significantly associated with a higher probability of having high dietary diversity score. However, lack of formal education (AOR = 0.34, [95% CI: 0.61, 0.89]) was inversely associated with the probability of having high dietary diversity. Conclusion More than half of pregnant women in western Ethiopia were found to have low dietary diversity. Therefore, ANC follow-up, dietary modification, and promotion of frequent use of wild edible plants (okra) to maintain household food security were very crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efrem Negash Kushi
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Science, Mettu University, Mettu, Ethiopia
| | - Tefera Belachew
- Departments of Nutrition and Dietetics, Public Health Institute, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Dessalegn Tamiru
- Departments of Nutrition and Dietetics, Public Health Institute, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
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Jhaveri NR, Poveda NE, Kachwaha S, Comeau DL, Nguyen PH, Young MF. Opportunities and barriers for maternal nutrition behavior change: an in-depth qualitative analysis of pregnant women and their families in Uttar Pradesh, India. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1185696. [PMID: 37469540 PMCID: PMC10352842 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1185696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Maternal undernutrition during pregnancy remains a critical public health issue in India. While evidence-based interventions exist, poor program implementation and limited uptake of behavior change interventions make addressing undernutrition complex. To address this challenge, Alive & Thrive implemented interventions to strengthen interpersonal counseling, micronutrient supplement provision, and community mobilization through the government antenatal care (ANC) platform in Uttar Pradesh, India. Objective This qualitative study aimed to: (1) examine pregnant women's experiences of key nutrition-related behaviors (ANC attendance, consuming a diverse diet, supplement intake, weight gain monitoring, and breastfeeding intentions); (2) examine the influence of family members on these behaviors; and (3) identify key facilitators and barriers that affect behavioral adoption. Methods We conducted a qualitative study with in-depth interviews with 24 pregnant women, 13 husbands, and 15 mothers-in-law (MIL). We analyzed data through a thematic approach using the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behavior (COM-B) framework. Results For ANC checkups and maternal weight gain monitoring, key facilitators were frontline worker home visits, convenient transportation, and family support, while the primary barrier was low motivation and lack understanding of the importance of ANC checkups. For dietary diversity, there was high reported capability (knowledge related to the key behavior) and most family members were aware of key recommendations; however, structural opportunity barriers (financial strain, lack of food availability and accessibility) prevented behavioral change. Opportunity ranked high for iron and folic acid supplement (IFA) intake, but was not consistently consumed due to side effects. Conversely, lack of supply was the largest barrier for calcium supplement intake. For breastfeeding, there was low overall capability and several participants described receiving inaccurate counseling messages. Conclusion Key drivers of maternal nutrition behavior adoption were indicator specific and varied across the capability-opportunity-motivation behavior change spectrum. Findings from this study can help to strengthen future program effectiveness by identifying specific areas of program improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha R. Jhaveri
- Behavioral, Social and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Natalia E. Poveda
- Doctoral Program in Nutrition and Health Sciences, Laney Graduate School, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Shivani Kachwaha
- Program in Human Nutrition, Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Dawn L. Comeau
- Behavioral, Social and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Phuong H. Nguyen
- Poverty, Health, and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Washington, DC, United States
| | - Melissa F. Young
- Doctoral Program in Nutrition and Health Sciences, Laney Graduate School, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Fite MB, Tura AK, Yadeta TA, Oljira L, Wilfong T, Mamme NY, Asefa G, Gurmu DB, Habtu W, Waka FC, Demiss NT, Woldeyohannes M, Tessema M, Alemayehu D, Hassen TA, Motuma A, Roba KT. Co-occurrence of iron, folate, and vitamin A deficiency among pregnant women in eastern Ethiopia: a community-based study. BMC Nutr 2023; 9:72. [PMID: 37353841 DOI: 10.1186/s40795-023-00724-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is well known that the magnitude of undernutrition in Ethiopia is unacceptably high. The burden of co-occurrence of iron, folate, and vitamin A deficiency, on the other hand, has received less attention. Thus, in this study, we looked at the prevalence of iron, folate, and vitamin A deficiency in pregnant women in eastern Ethiopia. METHODS A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 397 pregnant women in Haramaya district, eastern Ethiopia. An interview-assisted questionnaire and blood serum were collected from pregnant women using standard techniques and shipped to an EPHI for micronutrient analysis. Factors associated with the co-occurrence of iron, folate, and vitamin A deficiency were identified using binary and multiple logistic regressions. RESULTS According to this study, 81.6% of the participants were deficient in at least one micronutrient, and 53.53.2% were deficient in two or more. Women who did not receive iron-folic acid supplementation (AOR = 2.44; 95% CI = 1.52-3.92), did not attend Antenatal care (ANC) follow up (AOR = 2.88; 95% CI = 1.81-4.61), and reported low consumption of diversified diet (AOR = 2.18 (95% CI = 1.35-3.51) had a higher risk of co-occurrence of iron, folate, and vitamin A deficiency. CONCLUSION This study found that more than half of pregnant women were in multiple micronutrients, indicating a major public health issue. In addition to the IFA supplementation programs that are already in place, there is a need for multiple micronutrient supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meseret Belete Fite
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Abera Kenay Tura
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Tesfaye Assebe Yadeta
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Lemessa Oljira
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Tara Wilfong
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Newas Yusuf Mamme
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Gemechu Asefa
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Demiraw Bikila Gurmu
- Department of National Clinical Chemistry Reference Laboratory, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Wossene Habtu
- Department of National Clinical Chemistry Reference Laboratory, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Feyissa Challa Waka
- Department of National Clinical Chemistry Reference Laboratory, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Nahom Tefera Demiss
- Food Science and Nutrition Research Directorate, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Meseret Woldeyohannes
- Food Science and Nutrition Research Directorate, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Masresha Tessema
- Food Science and Nutrition Research Directorate, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Dawit Alemayehu
- Food Science and Nutrition Research Directorate, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tahir Ahmed Hassen
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Aboma Motuma
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Kedir Teji Roba
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia.
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Cliffer I, Darling AM, Madzorera I, Wang D, Perumal N, Wang M, Liu E, Pembe AB, Urassa W, Fawzi WW. Associations of Diet Quality, Socioeconomic Factors, and Nutritional Status with Gestational Weight Gain among Pregnant Women in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Curr Dev Nutr 2023; 7:100041. [PMID: 37181931 PMCID: PMC10111583 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2023.100041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Gestational weight gain (GWG) is a modifiable factor associated with maternal and child health outcomes, but the relationship between diet quality and GWG has not been evaluated using metrics validated for low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). Objective This study aimed to investigate relationships between diet quality, socioeconomic characteristics, and GWG adequacy using the novel Global Diet Quality Score (GDQS), the first diet quality indicator validated for use across LMIC. Methods Weights of pregnant women enrolled between 12 and 27 wk of gestation (N = 7577) were recorded in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, from 2001 to 2005 during a prenatal micronutrient supplementation trial. GWG adequacy was the ratio of measured GWG to Institute of Medicine-recommended GWG, categorized into severely inadequate (<70%), inadequate (70 to <90%), adequate (90 to <125%), or excessive (≥125%). Dietary data were collected using 24-h recalls. Multinomial logit models were used to estimate relationships between GDQS tercile, macronutrient intake, nutritional status, and socioeconomic characteristics and GWG. Results GDQS scores in the second [relative risk (RR): 0.82; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.70, 0.97] tercile were associated with lower risk of inadequate weight gain than those in the first tercile. Increased protein intake was associated with higher risk of severely inadequate GWG (RR: 1.06; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.09). Nutritional status and socioeconomic factors were associated with GWG: underweight prepregnancy BMI (in kg/m2) with a higher risk of severely inadequate GWG (RR: 1.49; 95% CI: 1.12, 1.99), overweight or obese BMI with a higher risk of excessive GWG (RR: 6.80; 95% CI: 5.34, 8.66), and a higher education (RR: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.42, 0.89), wealth (RR: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.48, 0.80), and height (RR: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.95, 0.98) with a lower risk of severely inadequate GWG. Conclusions Dietary indicators showed few associations with GWG. However, stronger relationships were revealed between GWG, nutritional status, and several socioeconomic factors.This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00197548.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilana Cliffer
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anne Marie Darling
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Isabel Madzorera
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Dongqing Wang
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Global and Community Health, College of Public Health, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Nandita Perumal
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Molin Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Enju Liu
- Institutional Centers for Clinical and Translational Research, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrea B. Pembe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Willy Urassa
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Wafaie W. Fawzi
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
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Dada S, Cocoman O, Portela A, De Brún A, Bhattacharyya S, Tunçalp Ö, Jackson D, Gilmore B. What's in a name? Unpacking 'Community Blank' terminology in reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health: a scoping review. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:bmjgh-2022-009423. [PMID: 36750272 PMCID: PMC9906186 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2022-009423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Engaging the community as actors within reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health (RMNCH) programmes (referred to as 'community blank') has seen increased implementation in recent years. While evidence suggests these approaches are effective, terminology (such as 'community engagement,' 'community participation,' 'community mobilisation,' and 'social accountability') is often used interchangeably across published literature, contributing to a lack of conceptual clarity in practice. The purpose of this review was to describe and clarify varying uses of these terms in the literature by documenting what authors and implementers report they are doing when they use these terms. METHODS Seven academic databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, Global Health), two grey literature databases (OAIster, OpenGrey) and relevant organisation websites were searched for documents that described 'community blank' terms in RMNCH interventions. Eligibility criteria included being published between 1975 and 1 October 2021 and reports or studies detailing the activities used in 'community blank.' RESULTS: A total of 9779 unique documents were retrieved and screened, with 173 included for analysis. Twenty-four distinct 'community blank' terms were used across the documents, falling into 11 broader terms. Use of these terms was distributed across time and all six WHO regions, with 'community mobilisation', 'community engagement' and 'community participation' being the most frequently used terms. While 48 unique activities were described, only 25 activities were mentioned more than twice and 19 of these were attributed to at least three different 'community blank' terms. CONCLUSION Across the literature, there is inconsistency in the usage of 'community blank' terms for RMNCH. There is an observed interchangeable use of terms and a lack of descriptions of these terms provided in the literature. There is a need for RMNCH researchers and practitioners to clarify the descriptions reported and improve the documentation of 'community blank' implementation. This can contribute to a better sharing of learning within and across communities and to bringing evidence-based practices to scale. Efforts to improve reporting can be supported with the use of standardised monitoring and evaluation processes and indicators. Therefore, it is recommended that future research endeavours clarify the operational definitions of 'community blank' and improve the documentation of its implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Dada
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland .,UCD Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, Education and Innovation in Health Systems (UCD IRIS), School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Olive Cocoman
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Anayda Portela
- Department of Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Aoife De Brún
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland,UCD Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, Education and Innovation in Health Systems (UCD IRIS), School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Özge Tunçalp
- UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP), Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneve, Switzerland
| | - Debra Jackson
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London, UK
| | - Brynne Gilmore
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland,UCD Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, Education and Innovation in Health Systems (UCD IRIS), School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Siddiqui AA, Nigam S, Saif Anees, Midha T. Effect of Prenatal Dietary Pattern on Maternal Anemia and Low Birth Weight in Rural Areas of Kanpur. INDIAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY HEALTH 2022. [DOI: 10.47203/ijch.2022.v34i04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Background: In India, the dietary pattern of women from low socioeconomic status are almost same during pre-pregnant, pregnant and lactating periods. Additional foods are required to improve weight gain in pregnancy and birth weight of infants. Aim & Objective: To identify the impact of prenatal dietary pattern on maternal anemia and low birth weight in rural areas of Kanpur Nagar. Methods: This study was a cross sectional study conducted amongst mothers who recently delivered (RDW) in rural blocks of District Kanpur Nagar. Data was collected by interviewing study subjects using a semi-structured interview schedule after applying multistage random sampling technique. Results: Out of 102 women studied, 39.2% women had consumed >90 IFA tablets, 49.1% of mothers had practiced MMF and 47.1% of women practiced MDD during their prenatal period and 40.1% babies of current pregnancy were born as LBW. IFA consumption during pregnancy was significantly associated with maternal anemia. MMF during pregnancy was significantly associated with LBW. Conclusions: In our study it was found that IFA consumption, MMF and MDD during antenatal is a key preventive measure to reduce anemia status in pregnant females and birth weight of baby during prenatal period.
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Sanghvi T, Nguyen PH, Ghosh S, Zafimanjaka M, Walissa T, Karama R, Mahmud Z, Tharaney M, Escobar‐Alegria J, Dhuse EL, Kim SS. Process of developing models of maternal nutrition interventions integrated into antenatal care services in Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia and India. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2022; 18:e13379. [PMID: 35698901 PMCID: PMC9480954 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Integrating nutrition interventions into antenatal care (ANC) requires adapting global recommendations to fit existing health systems and local contexts, but the evidence is limited on the process of tailoring nutrition interventions for health programmes. We developed and integrated maternal nutrition interventions into ANC programmes in Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia and India by conducting studies and assessments, developing new tools and processes and field testing integrated programme models. This paper elucidates how we used information and data to contextualize a package of globally recommended maternal nutrition interventions (micronutrient supplementation, weight gain monitoring, dietary counselling and counselling on breastfeeding) and describes four country‐specific health service delivery models. We developed a Theory of Change to illustrate common barriers and strategies for strengthening nutrition interventions during ANC. We used multiple information sources including situational assessments, formative research, piloting and pretesting results, supply assessments, stakeholder meetings, household and service provider surveys and monitoring data to design models of maternal nutrition interventions. We developed detailed protocols for implementing maternal nutrition interventions; reinforced staff capacity, nutrition counselling, monitoring systems and community engagement processes; and addressed micronutrient supplement supply bottlenecks. Community‐level activities were essential for complementing facility‐based services. Routine monitoring data, rapid assessments and information from intensified supervision were important during the early stages of implementation to improve the feasibility and scalability of models. The lessons from addressing maternal nutrition in ANC may serve as a guide for tackling missed opportunities for nutrition within health services in other contexts. Integrating evidence‐based nutrition interventions into ANC to reach PW at scale is urgently needed for improving maternal and newborn health and nutrition. The Theory of Change and steps for strengthening nutrition interventions based on four‐country experiences provide practical guidance on addressing missed opportunities for nutrition in ANC. Strategic use of data can contextualize global maternal nutrition guidelines, protocols, capacity building and supervision approaches, and improve micronutrient supply chains and record‐keeping as part of health services strengthening. Engaging family and community members to support PW and improving the knowledge and self‐confidence of PW are important elements of all country programme models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Sanghvi
- Alive & Thrive Initiative, FHI Solutions Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Phuong Hong Nguyen
- Poverty, Health and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Sebanti Ghosh
- Alive & Thrive Initiative, FHI Solutions New Delhi India
| | | | - Tamirat Walissa
- Alive & Thrive Initiative, FHI Solutions Addis Ababa Ethiopia
| | - Robert Karama
- Alive & Thrive Initiative, FHI Solutions Ouagadougou Burkina Faso
| | - Zeba Mahmud
- Alive & Thrive Initiative, FHI Solutions Dhaka Bangladesh
| | | | | | - Elana Landes Dhuse
- Alive & Thrive Initiative, FHI Solutions Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Sunny S. Kim
- Poverty, Health and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute Washington District of Columbia USA
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Kachwaha S, Nguyen PH, Tran LM, Avula R, Young MF, Ghosh S, Forissier T, Escobar-Alegria J, Sharma PK, Frongillo EA, Menon P. Specificity Matters: Unpacking Impact Pathways of Individual Interventions within Bundled Packages Helps Interpret the Limited Impacts of a Maternal Nutrition Intervention in India. J Nutr 2021; 152:612-629. [PMID: 34792151 PMCID: PMC8826931 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxab390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To address gaps in coverage and quality of nutrition services, Alive & Thrive (A&T) strengthened the delivery of maternal nutrition interventions through government antenatal care (ANC) services in Uttar Pradesh, India. The impact evaluation of the A&T interventions compared intensive ANC (I-ANC) with standard ANC (S-ANC) areas and found modest impacts on micronutrient supplementation, dietary diversity, and weight-gain monitoring. OBJECTIVES This study examined intervention-specific program impact pathways (PIPs) and identified reasons for limited impacts of the A&T maternal nutrition intervention package. METHODS We used mixed methods: frontline worker (FLW) surveys (n = ∼500), counseling observations (n = 407), and qualitative in-depth interviews with FLWs, supervisors, and block-level staff (n = 59). We assessed 7 PIP domains: training and materials, knowledge, supportive supervision, supply chains, data use, service delivery, and counseling. RESULTS Exposure to training improved in both I-ANC and S-ANC areas with more job aids used in I-ANC compared with S-ANC (90% compared with 70%), but gaps remained for training content and refresher trainings. FLWs' knowledge improvement was higher in I-ANC than S-ANC (22-36 percentage points), but knowledge of micronutrient supplement benefits and recommended foods was insufficient (<50%). Most FLWs received supervision (>90%), but supportive supervision was limited by staff vacancies and competing work priorities. Supplies of iron-folic acid and calcium supplements were low in both areas (30-50% stock-outs). Use of monitoring data during review meetings was higher in I-ANC than S-ANC (52% compared with 36%) but was constrained by time, understanding, and data quality. Service provision improved in both I-ANC and S-ANC areas, but counseling on supplement benefits and weight-gain monitoring was low (30-40%). CONCLUSIONS Systems-strengthening efforts improved maternal nutrition interventions in ANC, but gaps remained. Taking an intervention-specific perspective to the PIP analysis in this package of services was critical to understand how common and specific barriers influenced overall program impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Kachwaha
- International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Washington, DC, USA
| | | | | | - Rasmi Avula
- International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Washington, DC, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Purnima Menon
- International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Washington, DC, USA
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Nguyen PH, Kachwaha S, Tran LM, Sanghvi T, Ghosh S, Kulkarni B, Beesabathuni K, Menon P, Sethi V. Maternal Diets in India: Gaps, Barriers, and Opportunities. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13103534. [PMID: 34684535 PMCID: PMC8540854 DOI: 10.3390/nu13103534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Suboptimal dietary intake is a critical cause of poor maternal nutrition, with several adverse consequences both for mothers and for their children. This study aimed to (1) assess maternal dietary patterns in India; (2) examine enablers and barriers in adopting recommended diets; (3) review current policy and program strategies to improve dietary intakes. We used mixed methods, including empirical analysis, compiling data from available national and subnational surveys, and reviewing literature, policy, and program strategies. Diets among pregnant women are characterized by low energy, macronutrient imbalance, and inadequate micronutrient intake. Supply- and demand-side constraints to healthy diets include food unavailability, poor economic situation, low exposure to nutrition counselling, food restrictions and taboos, adverse family influence and gender norms, and gaps in knowledge. Intervention strategies with potential to improve maternal diets include food-based programs, behavior change communication, and nutrition-sensitive agriculture interventions. However, strategies face implementation bottlenecks and limited effectiveness in real-world at-scale impact evaluations. In conclusion, investments in systems approaches spanning health, nutrition, and agriculture sectors, with evaluation frameworks at subnational levels, are needed to promote healthy diets for women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phuong Hong Nguyen
- Poverty, Health and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC 20005, USA; (S.K.); (P.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Shivani Kachwaha
- Poverty, Health and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC 20005, USA; (S.K.); (P.M.)
| | | | - Tina Sanghvi
- Alive & Thrive Initiative, FHI Solutions, Washington, DC 20009, USA; (T.S.); (S.G.)
| | - Sebanti Ghosh
- Alive & Thrive Initiative, FHI Solutions, Washington, DC 20009, USA; (T.S.); (S.G.)
| | | | | | - Purnima Menon
- Poverty, Health and Nutrition Division, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC 20005, USA; (S.K.); (P.M.)
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