This study evaluates the impact of the Pushtikona-5 program, a market-based home fortification initiative using micronutrient powder (MNP) in Bangladesh. Using a modified stepped-wedge design, surveys were conducted at baseline, midline, and endline. The prevalence of anemia decreased from 46.6% at baseline to 32.1% at midline and 31.2% at endline. MNP coverage and consumption also increased over the study period. The findings suggest a significant reduction in anemia prevalence and improved program coverage, demonstrating the feasibility and impact of integrating market-based MNP distribution with infant and young child feeding promotion through community health workers.
Top 5 points discussed :
1. Positive Outcomes: The study shows a reduction in anemia prevalence and increased coverage of Pushtikona-5, but the anemia reduction isn't solely due to Pushtikona-5.
2. Combined Interventions: The combined approach of promoting feeding practices and using Multiple Micronutrient Powder (MNP) may have contributed to anemia reduction, though causality is challenging to establish without a comparison group.
3. Success of Market-Based Model: The market-based model for MNP distribution, dependent on community health workers, demonstrated effectiveness, emphasizing the importance of operational quality.
4. Challenges in IYCF Practices: Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices initially improved but plateaued, possibly influenced by incentives promoting Pushtikona-5.
5. Considerations for Program Implementation: The evaluation underscores the need to address factors influencing low home visits by community health workers and emphasizes cautious integration of MNP and IYCF programs to avoid unintended consequences.
Resource type:
Peer review
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