The Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan, in collaboration with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), conducted a National Micronutrient Study Among Women and Children in Turkmenistan, as reported by official media of Turkmenistan on Wednesday.
The study assessed the prevalence of various forms of micronutrient deficiencies and associated risk factors among women and children. Researchers collected data from 2,672 households across several regions of the country.
The report provides a detailed analysis of dietary practices, food diversity, and the prevalence of anemia, as well as deficiencies in critical micronutrients such as iodine, folic acid, iron, and vitamins A and D.
The results indicate significant progress in nutrition over recent years, highlighting key areas that require ongoing attention. Notably, the study shows a decrease in anemia levels among non-pregnant women of reproductive age and children aged 6 to 59 months compared to the micronutrient study conducted in 2011.
Additionally, the findings reveal that households increasingly use adequately iodized salt and enriched wheat flour, indicating successful implementation of universal salt iodization standards and international flour enrichment norms.
Improving nutrition and health outcomes for women and children remains a top priority for the Government of Turkmenistan.
