India Micronutrient Deficiency Survey 2003-2006

Carried out to assess the prevalence of common micronutrient deficiencies among select populations in rural communities, this survey was conducted in the 80 villages in eight states covered by the NNMB's 2001-2002 rural diet and nutrition survey. Approximately 76,600 households were covered.

The survey was intended to assess the prevalence of vitamin A deficiency among preschool children (1-5 years), iodine deficiency disorders among children ages 6-12, and levels of hemoglobin among preschool children, adolescent girls (12-18 years), and pregnant and lactating women. The survey also investigated the level of iodine in cooking salt, and assessed women's knowledge and practices related to iodine deficiency anemia and vitamin A deficiency in a sub-sample of households. 

There are two reports for this survey: "Prevalence of Micronutrient Deficiencies" (NNMB Report No. 22; 2003) and "Prevalence of Vitamin A Deficiency Among Preschool Children in Rural Areas" (NNMB Report No. 23; 2006).