Micronutrient deficiencies, beliefs about food and attitudes towards supplementation in women of reproductive age in rural Ghanaian communities

Abstract

Micronutrient deficiencies in women of reproductive age are associated with multiple adverse outcomes for both mother and infant. Recent estimates indicate that globally over two billion people are at risk for vitamin A, iodine, and iron deficiency. In Ghana, only 4% of a family's diet comes from animal sources while 72% of their dietary energy supply is obtained from carbohydrates.METHODSA convenience sample of 169 women of childbearing age (15–49) in rural villages near Kumasi, Ghana were surveyed.RESULTSWomen stated they receive free prenatal vitamins only during pregnancy—not during lactation or between pregnancies. Data suggests many food groups were underrepresented in their diets, particularly those foods from animal sources. Findings indicate that women of childbearing age are experiencing micronutrient deficiencies. The recommended daily intake of Vitamin A is 800 mcg; women surveyed received 346.1mcg. Women who are pregnant and lactating as well as those who are not are deficient in zinc; however women who were not pregnant and lactating were more deficient (p= .0242).CONCLUSIONResults from this study demonstrate that women of childbearing age may benefit from nutrition education along with micronutrient supplementation during pregnancy, lactation, and between pregnancies.