Uptake of vitamin A supplement among children aged 6 to 59 months attending Kirumandagi health centre II, Luweero district, A Cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background:

Vitamin A supplementation coverage has been inconsistent, as only slightly more than half of children aged 6–59 months receive the supplement. This study aimed to assess the determinants of Uptake of Vitamin A supplements among children aged 6 to 59 months attending Kirumandagi Health Centre II, Luweero district.

 Methodology:

 A descriptive cross-sectional study design employing quantitative methods was used to collect data among caregivers of children aged 6 to 59 Months attending Kirumandagi Health Centre II. Data collection was done within a period of 4 days by a convenience sampling technique using researcher-administered questionnaires, and data were analyzed using the Microsoft Excel (2019) program. Findings were presented in the form of tables, graphs, and pie-charts.

 Results:

 Out of 40 participants: (62.5%) were aged between 29 and 39 years, and (50%) of the respondents had attained secondary education. With caregiver-related factors (50%), the respondents did not know the benefits of Vitamin A for children, (65%) family needs made it hard to take their children, (75%) forgot, and (50%) families did not support them in taking their children for Vitamin A supplementation. Health facility–related determinants showed that (62%) reported inadequate staffing level, (70%) Vitamin A supplements were not always available at the health Centre and (65%) stated that health workers did not explain during Vitamin A visits.

 Conclusion:

Forgetfulness, poor family support, and limited awareness were major barriers to the uptake of Vitamin A supplements. Many caregivers lacked knowledge about the benefits of Vitamin A, and some had mixed beliefs about its importance.

 Recommendation:

The health facility management should improve health worker communication by encouraging brief but effective health education during child health visits. They should conduct regular community sensitization sessions to improve caregiver knowledge and awareness.