Work

Integration of family planning and nutrition programmes in 64 WHO member states of Africa, Eastern Mediterranean and South-East Asia regions: findings from a survey of Ministry of Health officials

Year: 2026

Type: conference-abstract

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Family planning (FP) and nutrition services are essential for the health and well-being of girls and women in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), yet evidence on their existing and potential integration is limited. Also, little is known about relevant national programmes and the views of health officials. METHODS: An on-line survey of national health ministry officials in member states of WHO Regions for Africa (AFRO), Eastern Mediterranean (EMRO) and South-East Asia (SEARO) was conducted from 29 August 2023 to 15 December 2023, using a structured questionnaire. It covered national FP and nutrition programmes and policies, special FP programmes for vulnerable groups, task sharing in provision of services, and existing or potential for integration of FP and nutrition services. This was complemented with recent data from the UN Population Division and Global Health Observatory. RESULTS: Altogether, 64 (81%) of 79 member states' health officials responded. All countries in SEARO, 83% of countries in AFRO and 92% in EMRO reported the existence of a national nutritional programme. In 40 countries with integrated FP and nutrition programmes, integration of FP with breastfeeding counselling during the first 2 days after delivery was universal, followed by nutritional information, education and communication (98%) and nutritional counselling during pregnancy (98%). In 24 countries without an integrated FP and nutrition programme, food and/or cash assistance for nutrition and weekly iron folic acid supplement for women aged 15-49 years were reported as best suited for integration with FP. Integration with nutrition service was considered suitable by 58% of respondents. CONCLUSIONS: WHO regions vary widely in policies, programmes, provision and integration of FP and nutrition services. Officials of several countries recognise the potential values of integration, indicating the need to comprehensively explore strategies to promote integration to benefit women in LMICs.

Source: BMJ Global Health

DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2025-020307