An approach to Hemequity: Identifying the barriers and facilitators of iron deficiency reduction strategies in low- to middle-income countries

Abstract

Approximately 1.92 billion people worldwide are anaemic, and iron deficiency is the most common cause. Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) disproportionately affects women of reproductive age and remains under-addressed in low- to middle-income countries (LMICs). The primary objective of our scoping review is to evaluate the barriers and facilitators to IDA management in LMICs by using an intersectionality-enhanced implementation science lens adapted from the consolidated framework for implementation research and the theoretical domains framework. A total of 53 studies were identified. Contextual barriers included the deprioritization of IDA risk, unequal gender norms and stigma from the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Regional poverty, conflict and natural disasters led to supply chain barriers. Individual-level facilitators included partner support and antenatal care access while barriers included forgetfulness and having medical comorbidities. Successful interventions also utilized education initiatives to empower women in community decision-making. Moreover, community mobilization and the degree of community ownership determined the sustainability of IDA reduction strategies. IDA is not only a medical problem, but one that is rooted in the sociocultural and political context. Future approaches must recognize the resilience of LMIC communities and acknowledge the importance of knowledge translation rooted in community ownership and empowerment.