Abstract
Introduction: Childhood micronutrient deficiencies are known to influence host resistance mechanisms, thereby altering susceptibility to infectious diseases. Methods: Controlled cluster randomized trial, with Maternal and Child Health clinics (MCHCs) as the randomization unit, stratified by population group (Bedouin Arab and Jewish) was performed. Infants at age 6m were enrolled during 2005-2007 at MCHCs which were randomized to receive home food fortification with "Sprinkles", containing iron, folic acid, vitamins A, D, C and zinc; or standard supplementation, liquid iron, Vitamin A&D ("Controls"). Hematological indices, and iron stores, zinc and folate, were measured at age 6&12m. Data on primary care and emergency room (ER) visits due to infectious diseases was obtained during monthly home interviews. Results: The study population included 328 Bedouin Arab infants (192 in "Sprinkles" and 136 in "Controls"). Receiving "Sprinkles" was associated with a significantly lower rate of reporting of clinic visits, 43.0% of visits among Bedouin in the "Sprinkles" versus 62.5% among "Controls"; p
| Original language | English |
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| State | Published - 31 Oct 2012 |
| Event | 40st APHA Annual Meeting and Exposition - Moscone Convention Center San Francisco, San Francisco Duration: 27 Oct 2012 → 31 Oct 2012 |
Conference
| Conference | 40st APHA Annual Meeting and Exposition |
|---|---|
| City | San Francisco |
| Period | 27/10/12 → 31/10/12 |