Nigeria is grappling with a severe maternal health crisis and anaemia, which accounts for 10 per cent of pregnancy-related deaths. Antenatal Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation presents a critical solution that needs urgent adoption and scaling. However, a multifaceted approach that includes additional measures is essential for long-term success.
The prevalence of pregnancy-related anaemia in Nigeria is alarmingly high, and nationally, more than half of pregnant women suffer from it. This widespread condition not only jeopardises the health of mothers but also leads to severe complications for their babies. Women with severe anaemia face more than double the risk of maternal mortality, primarily due to the increased likelihood of fatal postpartum haemorrhage. Anaemia also exacerbates the risk of complications such as placental abruption, preterm birth, and increased susceptibility to infections. Additionally, anaemia contributes to low birth weight and can result in developmental issues for the baby.
As a doctor and maternal and child health specialist, my extensive experience treating women in rural and vulnerable communities has provided me with valuable insights into the challenges faced by pregnant women. I have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of inadequate maternal nutrition and severe anaemia. These experiences reinforce my belief that MMS is a critical intervention that could significantly improve health outcomes for both mothers and their babies. Indeed, it offers a transformative opportunity.
Unlike standard iron and folic acid supplements, MMS provides a comprehensive range of essential nutrients that address the heightened nutritional needs of pregnant women. Clinical evidence shows that MMS significantly outperforms IFAS. MMS reduces the incidence of low birth weight by between 12 and 14 per cent, preterm births by six to eight per cent, and stillbirths by eight per cent. For women suffering from anaemia, MMS is even more effective, reducing low birth weight by 19 per cent and six-month infant mortality by 29 per cent. The broader spectrum of nutrients in MMS helps address multiple nutritional deficiencies, improving overall maternal health and reducing the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Nevertheless, MMS alone will not suffice to tackle Nigeria’s maternal health crisis comprehensively. A multifaceted approach is required to address various dimensions of the problem.
One critical area is increasing male engagement and involvement in nutrition education. In Nigeria’s patriarchal society, where men often receive preference in food allocation, even when a woman is pregnant, there is a pressing need to change social attitudes and habits. Unfortunately, there are no existing educational programmes targeting men. Engaging men in nutrition education and emphasising the importance of maternal nutrition can significantly impact family practices and improve health outcomes for both mothers and babies. Educational programmes that include men can help shift social norms and encourage better nutritional practices at the household level.
Additionally, women in rural areas are disproportionately affected by nutrition-related anaemia due to a lack of education and limited access to antenatal care. Integrating nutritional interventions through mobile midwifery clinics is crucial for reaching these underserved populations. Mobile clinics can provide essential services, including nutritional education and supplementation, directly to rural communities, addressing both access and education gaps. These clinics can bridge the gap between rural women and necessary health services, ensuring that they receive adequate nutritional support and care.
Nigeria is making significant strides in integrating MMS into national policies. Efforts include local manufacturing exploration, the development of national working groups, and pilot programmes in states like Bauchi and Adamawa. However, given the urgent maternal health crisis, it is crucial to accelerate these efforts and foster a robust coalition to ensure swift and effective implementation of MMS nationwide.
In rural areas, where access to healthcare and nutritional resources is limited, MMS could make a significant difference. It would address the nutritional deficiencies that contribute to high rates of anaemia and related complications. Furthermore, the benefits of MMS extend beyond immediate health improvements, potentially leading to better educational outcomes and economic prospects for families.
Some may argue that implementing MMS could be prohibitively expensive or logistically challenging, particularly in resource-poor settings. However, it is important to recognise that the cost of inaction—continuing to face high maternal and infant mortality rates—far outweighs the investment required for MMS. The long-term benefits, including reduced healthcare costs and improved quality of life, make MMS a cost-effective and essential intervention. Addressing potential logistical challenges through strategic planning and collaboration with local and international partners will be crucial to ensuring the successful distribution and implementation of MMS.
To effectively address Nigeria’s maternal health crisis, the government, healthcare stakeholders, and the general population must advocate and implement a comprehensive strategy that includes MMS and additional supportive measures. This also must be coupled with efforts to educate men on the importance of maternal nutrition and enhance access to care through mobile clinics.
Nigeria can address the maternal health crisis head-on and ensure that every mother and child has the chance for a healthier, brighter future. Investing in these strategies is not merely about improving health; it is an investment in the future of Nigeria’s children and families. It is time to act decisively and embrace a comprehensive approach to make a meaningful impact on maternal health and create a healthier, more prosperous Nigeria.
