Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Vitamin A supplementation is one of the robust interventions for vitamin A
deficiency in developing and middle-income countries. However, despite the rollout of VAS
over the last three decades, the uptake of vitamin A supplements in some countries
including Somalia is still significantly low. There is therefore a need to understand the
deterrent of the VAS program.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The study employed a cross-sectional study design which aided in understanding the
factors influencing VAS. Data were collected by research assistants using a semi-structured
questionnaire from 324 caregivers. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 at a 95%
confidence interval. The data were subjected to descriptive and regression analysis. All
ethical considerations were adhered to in the study.
RESULTS
The rate of VAS among children aged 6 to 59 months in Yaqsgid district was
significantly low as compared to the WHO recommendation. Socio-demographic factors
that were found to significantly influence VAS were the caregiver's marital status, level of
education and employment status.
CONCLUSION
The community in Yaqshid district should be sensitized to the importance of
educating girls as well as giving women the opportunity to work to improve the VAS rates.
Additionally, the Somali government and partners in health should periodic health
education for women and amplify the door-to-door supplementation program.
