Efficacy of Educational Intervention on Parental Expertise Regarding Prevention of Hypovitaminosis of Retinol (Vitamin A) and Vision Impairment Among Mothers of Preschool Children.

BACKGROUND

Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is a leading cause of childhood blindness in developing countries, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality from common early-life illnesses, even at sub-clinical levels. The need for effective interventions to address VAD is critical, especially in communities where awareness is low.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the impact of a community-based educational intervention on improving maternal knowledge about vitamin A and its role in preventing childhood blindness and related health issues.

METHODS

The study was conducted in Choolai, Chennai, during March and April 2024, over four weeks. A total of 100 mothers of preschool children were enrolled, with equal numbers assigned to an experimental group (receiving community-based educational intervention) and a control group (receiving standard treatment). Data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire and the PRASHAT vision disability checklist. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 22.

RESULTS

The pre-test scores for both groups were similar. However, post-intervention, the experimental group showed a significant improvement in knowledge, with coherence scores increasing from 13.90 to 23.54, compared to minimal improvements in the control group. Demographic factors, such as age, education, and occupation, were significantly correlated with the improvement in the experimental group.

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrated that community-based educational interventions significantly enhance maternal knowledge about vitamin A, thereby reducing the risk of vitamin A deficiency and improving vision health among preschool children. These findings highlight the importance of such interventions in preventing hypervitaminosis and promoting optimal child health.