Acceptability and Compliance of Weekly Iron–Folic Acid Supplementation Among Young Collegiate Girls (17–18 Years) Under Free Living Conditions

Divya Soni; Anupa Siddhu; Priyanka Gupta Bansal; G.S.Toteja

Volume : V, Issue : I, January - 2015

Acceptability and Compliance of Weekly Iron–Folic Acid Supplementation Among Young Collegiate Girls (17–18 Years) Under Free Living Conditions

Divya Soni, Anupa Siddhu, Priyanka Gupta Bansal, G. S. Toteja

Abstract :

Anaemia is a major public health concern inflicting both developed and developing countries. According to NFHS–3, the prevalence of anaemia is 55.8% among ever–married women aged 15–19 years. The present study was undertaken to assess the acceptability and compliance of weekly iron–folic acid supplementation (WIFS) among 111 young collegiate girls aged 17–18 years under free living conditions and to assess their haematological status. Overall prevalence of anaemia was 49.5%, whereas serum ferritin and vitamin B12 deficiency was 45% and 63.3% respectively. IEC sessions were conducted to explain aboutanaemia, the importance and benefits of consumption of WIFS. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted to elicit information on the attitudes and perceptions with respect to WIFS. Amongst 111 collegiate girls, only 45 girls volunteered to consume the supplements. Compliance with IFA supplementation was studied over a period of 5 weeks and very few side effects were reported. Efficacious counselling and supervision helps in reaching higher rate of compliance.