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Vitamin and Mineral Nutrition Information System
The Vitamin and Mineral Nutrition Information System (VMNIS), formerly known as the Micronutrient Deficiency Information System (MDIS), was established in 1991 following a request by the World Health Assembly that surveillance of micronutrient deficiencies be strengthened at the global level. Part of WHO's mandate is to assess the micronutrient status of populations, monitor and evaluate the impact of strategies for the prevention and control of micronutrient malnutrition, and to track related trends over time. The Micronutrient Malnutrition unit of the Department of Nutrition for Health and Development manages the VMNIS through WHO's network of regional and country offices, and in close collaboration with national health authorities.
The objectives of the VMNIS are:
- To provide Member States with up-to-date national, regional, and global assessment of the magnitude of micronutrient deficiencies.
- To monitor and evaluate, through systematic data collection over time, the impact of WHO strategies to prevent and control micronutrient malnutrition.
- To track the progress made towards the goal of elimination of the major micronutrient deficiencies adopted by the international community.
- To provide Member States with technical support to increase their capacity to establish and maintain surveillance of micronutrient status at the national level.
Currently, the VMNIS includes three databases; dealing with Iodine Deficiency, Vitamin A Deficiency, and Anaemia.
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