Folic Acid Salt Study Launched to Improve Folic Acid Levels among Women of Reproductive Age in Zambia.
The U.S. Department of State and CIDRZ Conduct Site Visits to Drop-In Centres on the Copperbelt to Assess HIV Service Delivery During CHEP Transition.
May 4, 2026
Copperbelt health workers commend the U.S. Department of State and CIDRZ for their role in strengthening HIV prevention capacity.
May 6, 2026
CIDRZ is proud to introduce the Folic Acid Salt Study (FISFA Zambia) – an innovative initiative aimed at increasing folic acid levels among women of reproductive age in Zambia.
Folic acid plays a critical role in preventing fetal neural tube defects, a life-threatening birth defect that occurs within the first month of pregnancy, often before many women know they are pregnant. In Zambia, folic acid supplementation is typically initiated at the first antenatal care visit, which often occurs after the first trimester, missing this crucial early window of prevention.
The study will assess the effectiveness of FISFA as a universal food fortification vehicle by increasing serum and red blood cell (RBC) folate levels, evaluating folate insufficiency, and highlighting the need for fortified foods in Zambia.
A total of 250 participants will be enrolled and followed over six months, generating evidence to inform future nutrition policies and interventions.
