Effectiveness of the Brazilian Conditional Cash Transfer Program--Bolsa Alimentação--on the variation of linear and ponderal increment in children from northeast of Brazil.

Background: Social programs can improve the conditions required for families provide sufficient care and attention for an adequate health and nutrition.

Objective: This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Brazilian's conditional cash transfer program - Bolsa Alimentacao (PBA) on children anthropometric status.

Methods: A cohort of 1847 children, followed for 12 months: 1615 PBA children; 232 non-PBA.