Micronutrient Status in Sri Lanka: A Review

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Public Health
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Micronutrients (vitamins, minerals, trace elements) are essential for human health, growth, and development.
• Micronutrient deficiencies, termed 'hidden hunger,' pose a significant global health challenge, especially in developing nations.
• Sri Lanka faces a dual burden of malnutrition, encompassing both overnutrition and undernutrition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the micronutrient status in Sri Lanka from 2000 onwards.
• To identify prevalent micronutrient deficiencies and their associated factors within the Sri Lankan population.
• To inform future nutritional policies and intervention strategies.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of national surveys and published articles from 2000 to present.
• Analysis of data on the prevalence of various micronutrient deficiencies.
• Examination of demographic, socioeconomic, and dietary correlations with deficiencies.

Main Results:

• High prevalence of iron, zinc, calcium, folate, and vitamin A deficiencies identified.
• Significant decline in iodine deficiency attributed to universal salt iodization.
• Iron deficiency is a primary cause of anemia; females exhibit higher vulnerability.
• Coexistence of multiple and combined macro- and micronutrient deficiencies is common.

Conclusions:

• Micronutrient deficiencies remain a critical public health issue in Sri Lanka.
• Effective nutritional policies and nationwide interventions are crucial for improving population health.
• Further comprehensive research is needed to guide evidence-based strategies.