The effect of adding zinc to vitamin A on IGF-1, bone age and linear growth in stunted children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nutrition
• Micronutrient Research
• Public Health Interventions

Background:

• Childhood malnutrition, particularly micronutrient deficiencies, is a major global health concern.
• Vitamin A and zinc are essential micronutrients crucial for immune function and growth.
• Infections and stunted growth are significant challenges in children under five years old.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of combined vitamin A and zinc supplementation on growth and infection markers in children.
• To assess the effect of supplementation on serum retinol, serum zinc, IGF-1, C-reactive protein (CRP), gamma globulin, bone age, and height-for-age Z-score.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted with children aged 48-60 months.
• Participants received either vitamin A plus zinc sulfate or vitamin A plus placebo for six months.
• Weekly monitoring of nutrient intake and bi-weekly assessment of health indicators were performed.

Main Results:

• Significant increases were observed in serum retinol, serum zinc, IGF-1, bone age, and height-for-age Z-score.
• A significant decrease in C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, indicating reduced infection/inflammation, was noted.
• Correlations between CRP and height-for-age, and gamma globulin and height-for-age were significant.

Conclusions:

• Combined vitamin A and zinc supplementation effectively reduces infection risk and enhances linear growth in children.
• This supplementation strategy may be a key intervention for managing infection and stunting in young children.
• The findings support the role of micronutrient supplementation in improving child health outcomes.