1. Effect of duration of supplementation on hemotologic indices using Sprinkles in young children: A randomized clinical trial.
- Author
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Christofides, Anna, Asante, Kwaku Poku, Schauer, Claudia, Owusu-Agyei, Seth, and Zlotkin, Stanley
- Subjects
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ENRICHED foods , *DIETARY supplements , *IRON deficiency anemia , *CHILD nutrition , *HEMOGLOBINS - Abstract
Background. Home fortification with Sprinkles is a strategy to control iron deficiency and anemia. However, the most effective duration of intervention is not known. Objective. To evaluate and compare 2, 3 or 4 months of supplementation with Sprinkles in increasing hemoglobin concentration (Hb). Design. 585 Ghanian children were assigned to 60, 90 or 120 sachets of Sprinkles over 2, 3 or 4 months. We compared differences in Hb and serum ferritin concentration (SF) and prevalence of anemia (Hb<100 g/L) from baseline to 4 months within and between groups. Adherence and reporting of side effects (ease of use and diarrhea) were compared between groups. 8 and 12 months after intervention, differences in Hb were compared within and between groups. Results. Adherence was 88.6% (SD = 12.0%) with no group differences. Change in Hb from baseline to 4 months was significant in all groups (p=0.0001) with no group differences. Rates of anemia decreased significantly in all groups (p<0.0001). There were no differences in SF within or between groups at 4 months. Side effects were minimal and similar between groups. 8 and 12 months after intervention, Hb decreased significantly (p<0.05), with the exception of the 90 sachets group at 12 months. Conclusion. 2 months of intervention with Sprinkles is adequate to increase Hb, however more than one intervention period per year is necessary to maintain Hb levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2007