This cluster randomized controlled study aims to add to the evidence base on mHealth interventions by assessing the main effects of delivering nutrition messages on key maternal, infant, and young child nutrition (MIYCN) behaviors and outcomes through three innovative behavior change strategies. The strategies compared will be: (i) an interpersonal communication strategy using the Tanzanian government's Mkoba wa Siku 1000 maternal, infant and young child nutrition (MIYCN) curriculum (MwS) through clinic- and community-based channels, (ii) the mNutrition SMS text messaging module of the government's Wazazi Nipendeni program, and (iii) the combination of both of these strategies (interpersonal and SMS messaging). They will be compared with the current standard of care in Tanzania. The goal will be to determine which has the greatest impact on key MIYCN and hygiene practices and care-seeking behaviors. It will be paired with a costing analysis so that these effects can be understood in the context of their costs.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
2,245
Receipt of SMS messages on nutrition and health topics
Interpersonal counselling on health and nutrition topics
HKI-Tanzania
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Children's Dietary Diversity
% of children 6-29 mo. who consumed the minimum dietary diversity (received foods from ≥4 food groups on the previous day)
Time frame: 24 h
Women's dietary diversity
% who consumed food items from at least five out of ten defined food groups in the previous 24 hours (WDDS)
Time frame: 24 h
Children's Minimum Meal Frequency
% of children 6-29 mo. who consumed the minimum meal frequency the prior day (2/day for breastfed infants 6-8 mo.; 3/day for breastfed infants 9-29 mo.; 4/day for non-breastfed infants 6-29 mo.)
Time frame: 24 h
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