[Revalence of vitamin deficiency in Tajik children]

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Public Health
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Vitamin A deficiency is a significant global health concern, particularly in developing nations.
• It can lead to severe health consequences, including impaired vision and weakened immunity in children.
• Assessing the prevalence of vitamin A deficiency is crucial for targeted public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the prevalence of vitamin A deficiency in children aged 6-59 months in Tajikistan.
• To assess the knowledge and vitamin A supplementation practices among pregnant women in the same region.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine vitamin A deficiency prevalence.
• Data collection involved examining children aged 6-59 months and pregnant women.
• Surveys were used to gather information on vitamin A knowledge and supplementation.

Main Results:

• A high prevalence of vitamin A deficiency was found, with 51.8% of children aged 6-59 months affected.
• Nearly all examined pregnant women (97.4%) lacked information about vitamin A.
• A similarly high percentage of pregnant women reported not taking any vitamin supplements, including vitamin A.

Conclusions:

• Vitamin A deficiency poses a critical public health challenge for young children in Tajikistan.
• There is an urgent need for widespread vitamin A supplementation programs and public health education for pregnant women.
• Improving maternal knowledge and access to vitamin A is essential for preventing deficiency in both mothers and children.