Acceptability and Feasibility of Micronutrient Powders Versus Iron Syrup for Anemia Prevention in Young Children

Acceptability and Feasibility of Micronutrient Powders Versus Iron Syrup for Anemia Prevention in Young Children

This study seeks to assess the acceptability, compliance, and preference for iron supplementation; micronutrient powders (MNP) versus iron syrup. Additionally, this study seeks to assess front line health worker perceptions and experiences regarding ease of implementation of each strategy and delivery strategy preference.

The specific aims of this study are to assess the acceptability of, compliance, and preference for two delivery vehicles for pediatric prophylaxis iron supplementation (micronutrient powders (MNP) that contain iron versus iron syrup) among rural households in Bihar India delivered through home visits by front line health workers. Additionally, this study seeks to assess front line health worker perceptions and experiences regarding ease of implementation of each strategy and delivery strategy preference.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Singleton Children or one child per home

Exclusion Criteria:

• Currently taking iron supplements
• Mid upper arm circumference (MUAC) or less than 11.5 cm
• Suspected severe anemia
• Known case of haemoglobinopathy
• History of repeated blood transfusion
• Current pneumonia
• Current fever
• Acute diarrhea