Development of a Model for Prevention and Control of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Health Region 8

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Anemia is a significant public health concern in Health Region 8, Thailand, with prevalence rates of 29.5% among pregnant women, 20.5% among preschool children, and 37.6% among 6-year-old schoolchildren. This study aimed to develop and test a prevention and control program for anemia in Health Region 8 by integrating the four phases of the Research and Development (R&D) framework by Borg and Gall with the PRECEDE–PROCEED Model. Phase 1 assessed the situation through surveys of 839 service units across seven provinces and focus group discussions with 35 stakeholders, identifying four key barriers: inadequate screening coverage, lack of continuous follow-up systems, poor intersectoral coordination, and incorrect public knowledge and attitudes toward iron supplementation. Phase 2 developed the “R8 Iron MOM” program comprising five activities: anemia knowledge provision, iron-rich local food selection, proper iron supplementation techniques, health monitoring systems, and community-based support. Phase 3 tested the program using a one-group pretest-posttest design with 158 participants (pregnant women, children aged 6 months–5 years, and grade 1 students) over four weeks. Phase 4 evaluated and refined the program. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and McNemar's tests. Results showed statistically significant improvement across all groups: mean hematocrit increased by 1.8–3.4% (p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.94–1.52), knowledge scores improved by 0.8–1.4 points (p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.91–1.65), and daily iron supplementation adherence increased from 46.8% to 89.2% (p < 0.001). Overall satisfaction was at the highest level (Mean = 4.2, SD = 0.7). The R8 Iron MOM program showed promising trends in improving hematocrit levels, knowledge, and iron supplementation behaviors; it may be adapted for other contexts with appropriate modifications. However, controlled trial designs are recommended to confirm effectiveness and establish causal relationships.

Journal of Nutrition Association of Thailand (Online)

Development of a Model for Prevention and Control of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Health Region 8