Vitamin A deficiency disorder in Nepal

Vitamin a is a key factor for normal vision , growth of epithelial cells, production of  membranes and myelin , which coats the nerves, growth and formation of  bones and teeth , synthesis of  collagen and cartilage , wound healing, maintenance of  the adrenal glands , synthesis of hormones such as thyroid hormone; development of  body’s  natural defenses and the development of  embryos.

Vitamin A is present in colostrum’s and breast milk. Infants should being to take vitamin A supplementation and eat foods rich in vitamin A at the age of 6 months.

Prevalence of night blindness among women in Nepal

• The overall prevalence of night blindness in reproductive aged women and pregnant women was 4.7% and 6.0% respectively, while 16.7% of women reported having night blindness during their last pregnancy.

Causes

·        Low intake of Vitamin A from daily diets

·        Restricted Vitamin A (VA) absorption

·        Worm infestation

·        Increased VA requirement resulting from infectious diseases

Consequences

·        Xerophthalmia (Night blindness, Bi-tot's spot, corneal ulcer, Keratomalacia, xerosis)

·        Increased risk of morbidity and mortality

·        Increased risk of anemia

·        Miscarriage

·        Stillbirth

·        Low birth weight

National protocols of vita deficiency disorder

Severely malnourished children are at high risk of developing blindness due to vitamin A deficiency. For this reason a large dose of vita is given as follows for;

Prevention

100000 IU of vita 3 times /year    for children 6-12 month

200000 IU of vita 3 times /year     for children above 12 month

200000 IU of vita for mother within 6 weeks of deliver

Treatment

 Day 1;

< 6 months of age    50000 IU

6-12 month of age 100000 IU

>12 month of age 200000 IU

Day 2; same age – specific dose.

At least 2 weeks later; same age­­_ specific dose.