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Gender Equity and Vitamin A Supplementation: Moving Beyond Equal Coverage
Stella Nordhagen1, Aubrey Bauck1, David Doledec2
1Africa Regional Office, Helen Keller International, Dakar, Senegal.
Food and Nutrition Bulletin
|October 19, 2019
Summary
Vitamin A supplementation (VAS) programs can improve gender equity. While coverage is similar for boys and girls, integrating gender considerations in program design and communication is crucial for maximizing impact.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Global Health
- Nutrition Interventions
Background:
- Vitamin A supplementation (VAS) is a widespread public health intervention implemented in over 80 countries.
- Existing VAS programs often overlook gender equity considerations in their design and execution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the interplay between gender equity and VAS programs.
- To identify opportunities for enhancing gender equity within VAS initiatives.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive desk review of research on gender equity in health services was conducted.
- Findings were extrapolated to VAS programs, examining gender issues across implementation stages and delivery platforms.
- Secondary data from 45 surveys in 13 countries were analyzed to compare VAS coverage between genders.
Main Results:
- While significant differences in VAS coverage between boys and girls were minimal, numerous gender-related impacts were identified.
- Key areas for gender integration include the selection of VAS distributors and the development of communication materials.
- Missed opportunities for integrating gender considerations were evident throughout the VAS implementation process.
Conclusions:
- VAS programs present a significant platform for advancing gender equity.
- Program implementers and policymakers should re-evaluate current VAS strategies to incorporate gender-sensitive approaches.
- Integrating gender equity considerations can enhance the overall effectiveness and reach of VAS initiatives.
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