Vitamin A Supplementation and Child Mortality
Author Information
Author(s): Yakymenko Dorthe, Benn Christine S, Martins Cesario, Diness Birgitte R, Fisker Ane B, Rodrigues Amabelia, Aaby Peter
Primary Institution: Bandim Health Project, Indepth Network, Guinea-Bissau
Hypothesis
Is a lower dose of vitamin A associated with lower mortality in girls compared to the recommended dose?
Conclusion
The study did not confirm that a lower dose of vitamin A is more beneficial for girls at either 6 or 12 months of follow-up.
Supporting Evidence
- The overall mortality rate among participants was lower than expected.
- There was no significant difference in mortality at 6 months and 12 months between the low dose and recommended dose groups.
- The low dose was not associated with lower mortality in girls if the most recent vaccine was DTP.
Takeaway
The study looked at whether giving less vitamin A to girls would help them live longer, but it found that it didn't make a difference.
Methodology
Children aged 6 months to 5 years were randomized to receive either the recommended dose of vitamin A or half that dose during national immunization days.
Potential Biases
Selection bias was present as non-participants differed significantly from participants in baseline characteristics.
Limitations
The sample size was not sufficient to draw firm conclusions, and the mortality was lower than expected.
Participant Demographics
Children aged 6 months to 5 years, with a near equal distribution of boys and girls.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
0.60-2.54 after 6 months; 0.73-1.87 after 12 months
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website