(PO04-34-22) Landscaping Iron Folic Acid (IFA) Communication Materials as an Entry Point for Multiple Micronutrient Supplementations (MMS) Introduction in Indonesia

Objectives: To landscape and assess the quality of the existing IFA related communication materials that promote accepting behaviors as the initial stage of the implementation research that can accelerate MMS in Indonesia to reduce anemia in women.

Methods: Content analysis consists of desk review through database search, hand-search and consultation with trusted sources from the Government of Indonesia (GoI), UN Agencies/INGOs, Local NGOs and universities, and thematic narrative analysis using technical and behavior checklists to materials published from 1990 to 2021.

Results: Content analysis was made to 91 documents. 93% were published by the GoI, addressing pregnant women (27%), health workers (25%) and adolescents (15%) as the primary intended audience. The materials consist of guidelines (25%), books (20%) and posters (20%) were mainly target behavior changes of individuals and health workers on IFA, nutrition and anemia. Materials produced up to 2014 focused on IFA consumption and side effects while 2014 onwards, IFA was tailored to more diverse topics, including anemia, maternal-child health, stunting and nutrition with various placements at community, mid-media and social media. The government produced materials were more informative, directive and technical/skill-based, while NGOs and religious organizations were more persuasive and informative. This assessment set up 17 acceptance criteria, including technical accuracy, credibility and persuasive appeals. 84% of IFA materials are technically correct but insufficient persuasive appeals. Most materials (74%), with some adjustments, are accepted for further use of IFA communication and introduction to MMS in Indonesia.

Conclusions: The communication materials should be updated as technically accurate, follow the latest policies and regulations, and operate under an umbrella branding to persuade independent behavior to seek for IFA or MMS. As the initial stage to accelerate MMS program, the materials should be complementary to other health topics, by mentioning specific behavior, cue to action, address barriers and myths including gender inequality and social engagement towards behavior changes in Indonesian community.

Funding Sources: This research is funded by Kirk Humanitarian.