Information on the mechanisms of zinc is still in developing phase. Ecological and biological implications of long term zinc supplementation at population level requires assessment. The trial aims to assess the impact of routine supplementation of zinc among young growing children and evaluate its impact on intestinal microbial flora and relationship with gut mucosa integrity and co-morbidities.
WHO has recommended the use of zinc for the treatment of acute diarrhea. Literature supports up-scaling of zinc supplementation programs to prevent childhood illnesses, such as diarrhea and respiratory infections, and its subsequent co-morbid conditions. As the potential mechanisms of action of zinc still remains to be established, this trial is proposed to evaluate the relationship of intestinal microbial flora, intestinal permeability, morbidity patterns and response to various enteric pathogens in a representative birth cohort randomly allocated to receive daily zinc and micronutrients from 6-18 months of age, and a control population.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
TRIPLE
Enrollment
2,745
This will contain Micronutrient Supplements containing Microencapsulated Iron, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin D and Folic Acid
This will contain Microencapsulated Iron, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, and Folic Acid. Additionally, this will also contain 10 mg elemental Zinc Sulphate.
This will contain Nutritional Counselling and Education.
The Aga Khan University
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
Project Office, Matiari
Matiari, Sindh, Pakistan
Episodes of Diarrhea and additional morbidity such as acute lower respiratory tract infection, pneumonia and days with severe illness.
Time frame: 2 years
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