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ABSTRACT
Data were collected as part of a cross-sectional study. The objectives were to compare dietary intakes of iron and enhancers and inhibitors of non-heme iron absorption in hill tribe and urban women of Chiang Rai province, northern Thailand, and compare iron- and vitamin C- containing foods sold in markets in both settings. Dietary data were collected using three 24- hour recalls from 128 women aged 19–50 years (hill tribe: n = 65; urban n = 63), and proportions of low-, medium- and high-iron/vitamin C containing foods were surveyed in local markets. Hill tribe women consumed less iron, animal protein, vitamin C and calcium, but market availability of iron/vitamin C foods was similar. Future interventions should focus on food choice modification, to improve intakes of iron and foods that enhance its absorption, especially among hill tribe women.
Acknowledgements
All of the authors would like to convey their special gratitude to our participants, along with the staff from Phan Provincial Public Health office, Mae Fah Luang Provincial Public Health office, and Chiang Rai Highland People Development Center. In particular, special thanks are given to Mr Anusorn Srichan (Public Health Hospital Officer), Mr Thirapon Bun-Yuen (Head of Public Health Volunteers), Mrs Supaporn Wimonsil and Mrs Pitchanan Luang-Kam (Heads of Village Health Volunteers, Phan district), and Mrs Puntharik Porncharoensatit and Mr Pornsak Unapong (Mae Sa-Lab Highland Development Zone officers) for their help in recruiting participants and coordinating data collection. We also thank Mr Pitak Rajittayida (interpretation service), together with Ms Warunya Srisang and Ms Phannika Kanthima (assistance with data collection).
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.
Author contributions
DS and CH formulated the research idea. DS was the primary data collector, who designed and conducted the study under the supervision of CH. Data collection tools were devised by DS with advice from CH and WS. DS developed the food portion size booklet and performed dietary data collection and analysis with guidance from WS. DS was responsible for market survey data analysis, all statistical analyses and data presentation, following advice from MT. CH wrote the manuscript, with DS contributing some information. All authors read the manuscript, provided constructive comments, and approved it prior to submission.