Effect of Nutrition Education Intervention on the Use of Micronutrients Powders for Children Aged 6-59 Months in Zanzibar City

Abstract

The Micronutrient Powder (MNP) program in Tanzania, introduced by the Feed the Future Project in 2013, aimed to reduce the prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies among children under five years old. This study, conducted in Zanzibar City, where iron deficiency anemia is highly prevalent, assessed the effect of a Nutrition Education Intervention on the use of MNPs for children aged 6-59 months, focusing on hemoglobin levels and anthropometric measures. The study explored the potential of MNPs, coupled with proper education, to alleviate iron deficiency anemia and other nutrient deficiencies. The longitudinal study involved 363 mothers/caregivers and their children, with data collected at baseline, midline (4 weeks), and endline (8 weeks) using structured questionnaires that captured socio-economic and demographic information, nutrition-related data, and measurements of anthropometrics and hemoglobin concentrations. The intervention included individual counseling and the distribution of MNP brochures during clinic visits. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and one-way ANOVA were performed using IBM SPSS Version 26. Results showed significant changes in several indicators post-intervention: moderate anemia in children decreased from 64.7% at baseline to 59.5% at endline, with marginal decreases in severe anemia and slight improvements in weight-for-height and weight-for-age indicators, though height-for-age remained largely unchanged. The ANOVA results revealed variations in hemoglobin levels correlated with MNP intake, with those receiving moderate MNP showing the highest mean hemoglobin levels. The study concludes that MNP distribution programs should incorporate educational components to enhance compliance and effectiveness. Future strategies should consider appropriate dosing and consistent intake tailored to community-specific needs, alongside more holistic public health nutrition programs that address food security, water, sanitation, and mainstream health initiatives for sustained child health improvement. Further research is recommended to explore factors affecting long-term adherence and the intervention's impact across different settings to inform more precise public health strategies.