Maternal postpartum vitamin A supplementation programme: is there a need in Pakistan?

Maternal postpartum vitamin A supplementation is a safe and effective practice to replenish maternal vitamin A stores after delivery and in addition to provide the breastfeeding newborn with sufficient vitamin A. This strategy has been implemented in many countries around the world where Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is prevalent. Recently, this supplementation has also been suggested by the Ministry of Health, Pakistan. In the light of literature available to date on VAD, we have attempted to appraise the need for this supplementation in Pakistan.