Evidence-Based Strategies to Improve Vitamin a Status Among Children in Iran; [در کودکان ایران a راهکارهای مبتنی بر شواهد برای ارتقای وضعیت ویتامین] Publisher



Rajaeieh G ; Mohammadi Nasrabadi F ; Kalantari N ; Takian A
Source: Iranian Journal of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology Published:2026

Abstract

Background and aims: Vitamin A deficiency remains an important public health concern among Iranian children, particularly those aged 15–23 months. Findings from national micronutrient surveys, together with international reports, indicate that insufficient vitamin A intake is linked to a higher risk of acute respiratory infections and diarrheal diseases, which in turn contributes to increased illness and mortality among children. Methods: This study examines current policies aimed at improving vitamin A status in Iranian children by applying the Walt and Gilson policy triangle framework and drawing on insights from in-depth interviews with 55 national experts and policymakers. Findings: The results suggest that existing policies rely heavily on supplementation, while comparatively less attention has been given to more sustainable approaches such as food fortification and improving dietary diversity. The study also identifies several barriers that limit the effectiveness of current programs, including cultural misconceptions about supplements, low levels of nutritional literacy among caregivers, issues related to the taste and quality of domestically produced supplements, economic constraints, and weak coordination across sectors. The stakeholder analysis indicates that the Ministry of Health and the Supreme Council of Health and Food Security play the most influential roles in policy development and implementation, whereas the agricultural sector and food industries are less actively engaged in current strategies. Conclusion: Based on these findings, the study highlights the need for geographically and culturally tailored interventions, stronger food fortification initiatives, improvements in supplement quality, enhanced nutrition education for families, and more effective intersectoral collaboration. Simulation estimates suggest that implementing a comprehensive policy package could reduce the prevalence of vitamin A deficiency among children by up to 35% within three years while also decreasing healthcare costs associated with childhood infections. © 2026, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute. All rights reserved.