African Podiatry Journal | 13 December 2000

Vitamin A Supplementation and Child Malnutrition in Nairobi Slums: Two-Year Impact Evaluation

O, l, u, o, c, h, M, u, n, g, a, i, ,, K, i, s, i, m, a, N, g, a, i

Abstract

Child malnutrition remains a significant public health issue in Nairobi slums, where vitamin A supplementation (VAS) is often considered as part of an integrated nutrition strategy. A mixed-methods approach including baseline surveys, follow-up assessments, and qualitative interviews were employed. Data was collected from a sample of 300 randomly selected households across the study area. Initial results indicate that vitamin A supplementation led to a 25% reduction in malnutrition rates among children aged 6-36 months compared to those who did not receive VAS. The findings suggest that regular vitamin A supplementation can be an effective strategy for reducing child malnutrition, particularly when combined with other nutritional interventions and health education programmes. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term effects of VAS on child growth and development. Policy makers should consider integrating VAS into existing nutrition programmes in Nairobi slums. Vitamin A Supplementation, Child Malnutrition, Nairobi Slums, Two-Year Impact Evaluation