Effectiveness of a Large-Scale Health and Nutritional Education Program on Anemia in Children Younger Than 5 Years in Shifang,a Heavily Damaged Area of Wenchuan Earthquake

Abstract

This study aimed to explore an ideal way to prevent anemia among children younger than 5 years after disasters especially when health care facilities are not enough. A preliminary survey was carried out involving 13 065 children younger than 5 years. Pretested questionnaires were used for data collection and hemoglobin levels were measured. After 12-month intervention, the impact survey involving 2769 children was conducted. Results showed that there were some improvements both in feeding knowledge and practice related to anemia. The total prevalence of anemia decreased from 14.3% to 7.8% (P < .001), and the severity of anemia also declined. The hemoglobin concentration increased significantly from 118.8 ± 10.5 to 122.0 ± 9.9 g/L (P < .001). Thus, health and nutritional education could be an ideal way to combat anemia after disasters especially in less developed areas with multiparty cooperation. The methods and experiences of this study may be well worth learning and implementing.