Factors Influencing Anti-Malarial Prophylaxis and Iron Supplementation Non-Compliance among Pregnant Women in Simiyu Region, Tanzania

This study found that anti-malarial IPTp-SP and iron folic acid supplementation compliance among pregnant women remains low in the Simiyu Region of Tanzania. In interviews with women who were pregnant or 12 months postpartum, researchers learned that 89 percent of women who received IPTp-SP took only one or two doses and 29 percent of women who received iron folic acid supplements did not take any at all. Reasons for non-compliance included disliking the medications and disapproval from male partners. The authors call for stronger community education efforts, qualitative research, and directly-observed medication administration.