Prevalence of Vitamin A Deficiency in Children Aged 6 to 17 Years - Western and Central Rural Areas, China, 2012-2021.

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS TOPIC?: Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is a leading global nutritional concern, ranking among the top four major nutritional deficiencies worldwide. The prevalence of VAD is unevenly distributed across various regions, both within China and globally.

WHAT IS ADDED BY THIS REPORT?: The report adds valuable insights into the vitamin A nutritional status of rural students aged 6-17 years who participated in the Nutrition Improvement Programme for Rural Compulsory Education Students (NIPRCES). Over the decade from 2012 to 2021, there was a modest improvement in vitamin A status. The prevalence of VAD and sub-clinical VAD (SVAD) declined as the students aged. Throughout the majority of the survey years, the incidence of VAD was higher among males and western regions compared to females and central regions, respectively.

WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH PRACTICE?: A comprehensive approach, incorporating dietary diversification, nutrition education, and food fortification, should be implemented to prevent VAD and SVAD especially in males, younger children and children in western areas.