Conditional cash transfer programmes and nutritional status

Conditional cash transfer programmes give money to households on the condition that they comply with certain pre-defined requirements. These conditions can include, for example, up-to-date vaccinations, regular visits to a health care facility, regular school attendance by children, and complying with health and nutrition promotion activities (e.g. attending education sessions, taking nutritional supplements, etc.). Conditional cash transfer programmes are aimed at reducing poverty as well as breaking the cycle of poverty for the next generation through the development of human capital.

Current evidence suggests that conditional cash transfer programmes can be effective in increasing the use of health services and improving health outcomes including nutritional status, however, further research is needed before specific recommendations can be made.