Vitamin D deficiency prevention policies in Iran: a retrospective policy analysis
Baharak Aghapour, Sorayya Kheirouri, Mohammad Alizadeh, Rahim Khodayari‐Zarnaq
Abstract
Aim: Iran has a higher prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (VDD) than the global level. This study aimed to assess VDD prevention policies in Iran through a policy analysis of agenda setting using the multiple streams framework (MSF). Methods: = 27) using the framework analysis method. To categorize data and extract the related themes, MAXQDA version 10 was used. Results: According to Kingdon's MSF theory, the problem stream included the high prevalence of VDD among Iranian infants (23.3%), adolescents (76%), and adults (59.1%). The policy stream was identified to focus on preventing programs for non-communicable diseases in the health sector. The political stream indicated that national and international support could provide a political climate for this issue. Conclusion: According to our results, a window of opportunity for policymaking on VDD prevention has opened. However, there are some challenges related to the implementation of these policies. These include the dominance of a treatment-based view rather than a prevention-based approach in the health sector, economic problems, and restricted access to health services due to the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). To strengthen and implement VDD prevention policies, the stakeholders need support from high-level policymakers.