Iron supplementation can effectively control and prevent anemia in pregnancy. However, limited adherence is thought to be a major reason for the low effectiveness of iron supplementation programs.This research describes the factors influencing the adherence to iron/folate supplementation during pregnancy in Siem Reap and Kampong Cham provinces in Cambodia.Triangulation method, combining the quantitative and qualitative data collection methods, was performed for this study. A total of 177 women who gave birth during the year prior to the interview were selected for the quantitative survey. Ten women who gave birth during the year prior to the interview and 10 pregnant women were interviewed in-depth for the qualitative data.The χ2 test and binary logistic regression were used for statistical analysis. The findings showed an adherence rate of 47%. The logistic regression revealed that the number of supplements received, number of prenatal visits, and access to antenatal care were determinants of adherence (P<.05). In conclusion, access to and follow-up of antenatal care were considered elements essential to improve iron/folate supplementation. Community-based interventions, such as nutrition education and distribution of supplements, should be prioritized in the interventions to improve adherence in Cambodia.

BackgroundChildhood obesity has become an important public health problem in Thailand. This study aimed to determine the relationship between self discipline and obesity in Bangkok school children.MethodsA case control study was conducted. 140 cases (obese children) and 140 controls (normal weight children) were randomly chosen from grades 4-6 students in 4 Bangkok public schools. Questionnaire responses regarding general characteristics and child self-discipline were obtained from children and their parents.ResultsSelf discipline in eating habits, money management and time management were reported at significantly lower levels among the obese group (p < 0.05). After controlling all other variables, it was revealed that the ranking of factors associated with obesity by adjusted odds ratio (OR) were low self-discipline in managing expenses (3.1), poor home environment (3.0,), moderate self-discipline in time management (2.9), television viewing time ≥2 hours/day (2.6), an obese father (2.2), and an obese mother (1.9).ConclusionsIt was recommended that parents and teachers participate in child self-discipline guidance, particularly with regard to eating habits, money management and time management in a supportive environment that both facilitates prevention of obesity and simultaneously develops a child's personal control.