Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is a severe public health problem in many developing countries. The situation is probably worse in emergency affected areas. Clinical vitamin A deficiency, untreated can lead to childhood blindness and it is likely that vitamin A deficiency is one of the major contributing factors to the high under-five mortality rate.

Globally, 30% of the world's population is affected with iodine deficiency disorder (IDD). Babies born to mothers with IDD are at high risk of suffering from some degree of learning disability.

Anaemia is a widespread health problem affecting more than two billion people worldwide — one third of the world's population  The consequences of anaemia are multiple. Iron deficiency can delay muscular and nervous system development and mental performance, especially in preschool age children. In adults, anaemia reduces work capacity, mental performance and reduces tolerance to infections. Iron deficiency anaemia can also cause increased maternal mortality due to bleeding problems. Maternal anaemia can lead to prenatal infant loss, low birth weight, and pre-term births.

How could you find out if there are any people in your community with micronutrient deficiencies?

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There are a number of potential sources of information you might have listed, for example you could:
  • Ask teachers if there are children who miss school (children with anaemia may be too tired to attend)
  • Ask family members if there are mothers and children who find it difficult to see after dusk and if children frequently get sick (possible signs of vitamin A deficiency)
  • Ask community leaders/families if there are any children/adolescents who have swelling in front neck area (goitre: a sign of iodine deficiency).
Last modified: Wednesday, 28 May 2014, 7:09 PM