Process Evaluation of a Large-Scale Community-Based Nutrition Program in Malawi.

Background: Global attention to the study of nutrition program implementation has been inadequate yet is critical for effective delivery and impact at scale.

Objectives: The objective of this mixed-methods process evaluation study was to measure the recruitment, fidelity, and reach of a large-scale, community-based nutrition program in Malawi.

Methods: The nutrition program delivered a small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplement (SQ-LNS) and social and behavior change communication (SBCC) to improve infant and young child feeding (IYCF) and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices in households with children aged 6-23 mo.

Monitoring and evaluation design of Malawi's Right Foods at the Right Time nutrition program.

Child stunting is a public health problem in Malawi. In 2014, the Government of Malawi launched the Right Foods at the Right Time (RFRT) program in Ntchisi district delivering nutrition social and behavior change communication, a small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplement to children 6-23 months, and nutrition sensitive activities. Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems are key aspects of successful program implementation.

Global Update and Trends of Hidden Hunger, 1995-2011: The Hidden Hunger Index.

Background: Deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals-also termed hidden hunger-are pervasive and hold negative consequences for the cognitive and physical development of children.

Methods: This analysis evaluates the change in hidden hunger over time in the form of one composite indicator-the Hidden Hunger Index (HHI)-using an unweighted average of prevalence estimates from the Nutrition Impact Model Study for anemia due to iron deficiency, vitamin A deficiency, and stunting (used as a proxy indicator for zinc deficiency). Net changes from 1995-2011 and population weighted regional means for various time periods are measured.