Knowledge of parents and coverage among children regarding vitamin A in day care centers

Abstract

Background: Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is one of the most significant causes of preventable childhood blindness. The present study was conducted among parents of pre-school children to study knowledge and practice regarding vitamin A intake and coverage of Vitamin A supplementation among them. Methods: It was a cross sectional study conducted in Patiala city of Punjab. Interview was conducted among parents of 275 preschool children going to various day care centers in Patiala. Results: It was found in this study that 56.7% had knowledge regarding Vitamin A supplementation. Less than half of the parents knew about vitamin A rich foodstuffs. Conclusions: From the present study we can conclude that there is a wide gap regarding knowledge and coverage about vitamin A supplementation. Doctors and books were main sources of information.