Abstract:Background:Anaemia and soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are major public health challenges among children in low- and middle-income countries. In Bangladesh, anaemia affects 61% of children under two, while STH prevalence remains significant. Although micronutrient powder (MNP) supplementation and deworming interventions are implemented separately, integrating them through community-based platforms may enhance health outcomes and program efficiency. Objective:To assess the acceptability of integrating periodic deworming into an existing MNP program for children aged 6 59 months delivered by BRAC’s community health workers (CHWs). Methods:A qualitative study was conducted in Comilla and Feni districts using the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA). We collected data through 16 in-depth interviews with caregivers, four focus group discussions with 33 CHWs, and four key-informant interviews with BRAC program managers. Data were analysed thematically using a combination of deductive (TFA-based) and inductive approaches. Results:The integrated intervention was generally perceived as acceptable, practical, and beneficial for child health. CHWs and caregivers welcomed the potential for improved outcomes but highlighted challenges including caregiver affordability, community misconceptions, and the need for CHW refresher training. CHWs also raised concerns over increased workload without compensation, which blurred the lines between perceived burden and opportunity cost. No significant ethical or cultural objections were reported. Conclusion:Integrating deworming with MNP delivery through CHWs is feasible and acceptable in Bangladesh. To ensure successful scale-up, implementers must address community awareness, CHW support, and financial accessibility. These findings offer actionable insights for designing integrated child health interventions in resource-constrained settings.
Keywords: Global Health Nutrition, Anaemia, Deworming, Micronutrient Powder, Acceptability, Community Health Workers, Bangladesh
