Anaemia prevention for reduction of mortality in mothers and children.

The relationship of anaemia as a risk factor for child and maternal mortality is described. Maternal case fatality rates, mainly from hospital studies vary from < 1% to > 50%. These large differences in risk were related primarily to differences in available obstetric care for women living in areas with inadequate antenatal and delivery care facilities.

The effect on haemoglobin of the use of iron cooking pots in rural Malawian households in an area with high malaria prevalence: a randomized trial.

Background: Innovative low-cost sustainable strategies are required to reduce the high prevalence of iron-deficiency anaemia in developing countries.

Methods: We undertook a community-based randomized controlled intervention trial to assess the effects of cooking in iron or aluminium cooking pots in Malawian households in an area with high malaria prevalence. Analysis was by intention to treat and consistency of use.

Acceptability of the use of iron cooking pots to reduce anaemia in developing countries.

Objective: To evaluate acceptability, compliance and attitude towards the use of iron pots compared with aluminium pots, for cooking in a community that traditionally did not use iron pots.

Design: Randomised trial.

Setting: Two rural Malawian villages.