An Evidence-Based Protocol for Optimal Vitamin A Supplementation in India: A Best Practice Protocol

摘要

The purpose of this paper is to propose a best practice protocol for providing children living in India, ages six months to fifty nine months old, with maximally effective vitamin A supplementation every six months. Vitamin A supplements work as a prophylactic treatment to prevent the occurrence of ocular symptoms and reduce morbidity and mortality rates in children. The author first identifies the public health problem of vitamin A deficiency and discusses epidemiological trends of incidence and prevalence. Pertinent background information provides the history of supplementation in India. A brief overview addresses the physiological role of vitamin A and the negative impacts that occur when daily vitamin A requirements are not met. The author initiates a discussion about culturally specific attitudes and values regarding the process of vitamin A supplementation. The diffusion of innovation theory provides a conceptual framework. An in depth review of literature reflects recently published research on the degree of effectiveness of vitamin A supplementation on the youth population in India. Additional research results indicate an effective dose of vitamin A supplementation and how frequently to administer supplements. The author presents recommendations for a best practice protocol that modifies the current vitamin A supplementation program in place in India. This best practice protocol includes a detailed explanation of implementation and evaluation of the proposed protocol.