A new approach to control of anemia in "at risk" infants and children around the world. 2004 Ryley-Jeffs memorial lecture.

An estimated 60-80% of the world's population is affected by iron deficiency. It is the most common preventable nutritional deficiency in the world, despite global goals for its reduction. Young children are the highest risk group, particularly during their rapid period of growth. Anemia in infants and young children is known to have a negative impact on motor and socioemotional development and cognitive function. A new intervention, microencapsulated ferrous fumarate Sprinkles, has been developed to treat iron deficiency. The development process took the intervention from the idea stage to the research stage to the implementation stage. Multiple micronutrient Sprinkles are a breakthrough in meeting the global challenge to reduce childhood anemia due to iron and other micronutrient deficiencies. The goal of the Sprinkles project is to reduce the global burden of childhood anemia by promoting healthy weaning practices, by advocating home-fortification strategies to increase the micronutrient content of weaning foods, and by making Sprinkles widely available, particularly in developing countries.