Multiple micronutrient supplementation programme of Sri Lanka: does it deliver the goods? Experience from Central Province - A preliminary study

Introduction: Micronutrient deficiencies have been identified as a global health problem with higher prevalence rates in developing countries. In Sri Lanka, a multiple micronutrient (MMN) supplementation programme was started in 2007 in the most nutritionally vulnerable districts and extended to the whole country in 2012. Though effectiveness is established, success of the MMN programme depends on the compliance of caregiver towards programme guidelines.

Objectives: To assess knowledge, attitude, and usage of MMN supplement among mothers and identify problems of the MMN supplementation programme in order to optimize effectiveness of the programme.

Method: Mothers of 9-18 month old children, living in Yatinuwara Medical Officer of Health division and attending the Child Health Clinics, were selected for the study. Data were collected in 16 Child Health Clinics using a pre-tested interviewer administered questionnaire to assess knowledge, attitude and usage level of the MMN supplement. Data were analysed using SPSS version 20.

Results: Of 400 mothers included in the study 374 (93.5%) have received the supplements. Of them, 262 (65.5%), 236 (59%) and 338 (84.5%) were not aware that iron, calcium and zinc were included in the MMN supplement respectively. Though 240 (60%) mothers wanted to give the supplement to their baby, only 94 (25.13%) could give the supplement continuously as advised.

Conclusions: Acceptance rate of the MMN supplement was highly satisfactory. Though more than half the mothers wanted to give the supplement to their baby, only a quarter of them could give it continuously. Improving the awareness of the mothers about the MMN supplement and the programme is of paramount importance to make this nutritional programme a success.  

Sri Lanka Journal of Child Health, 2021; 50(3): 393-400