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Join IAPBDespite this, VAD is a major public health problem in the developing world affecting 190 million children under five particularly in Africa and South East Asia with India contributing to 85% of cases in South East Asia (WHO, 2009). Biochemical VAD is of public health significance in 122 countries and clinical VAD is of concern in 45 countries (WHO, 2009).
Vitamin A supplementation completely “stops”/prevents childhood blindness from vitamin A deficiency.
Just 2 doses of vitamin A given annually to all children 6-59 months of age prevents their developing vitamin A deficiency blindness. Because vitamin A deficiency can have a range of consequences, including an increased risk of child mortality, the term now used is “vitamin A deficiency disorders” (VADD). The reason why there are global programmes for control of vitamin A deficiency in children is because it also significantly increases under 5 mortality rates in countries where it is a public health problem.
Significant progress has been seen globally with an overall rise in VAS coverage among children under 5 years of age with one dose from 50% to 66% (UNICEF, 2012).
The full child survival benefits of VAS need to be realized especially in countries with high under 5 mortality rates (i.e. more than 50 per 1000 live births) U5MR. Adding VAS to child health and immunization days has contributed to increased coverage using a proven, innovative delivery mechanism. Further effort is necessary to accelerate the gains achieved. Advocacy is required to sustain efforts in VAD prevention and control through poverty reduction strategies.
Matt Dayka, Vitamin Angels
