Early nutrition eAcademy Southeast Asia e-Learning for enhancing knowledge on nutrition during the first 1000 days of life
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
6-1-2020
Abstract
Background: The double burden of both under- and overnutrition during the first 1000 days is highly prevalent in Southeast Asia (SEA), with major implications for lifelong health. Tackling this burden requires healthcare professionals (HCPs) to acquire evidence-based current knowledge and counselling skills. We assessed the needs of HCPs in SEA and developed a continuing medical education/professional development (CME/CPD) program using an e-learning platform to reduce existing gaps. Methods: European, Thai and Malaysian universities collaborated with SEA national nutrition associations in the Early Nutrition eAcademy Southeast Asia (ENeA SEA) project. We assessed HCPs' needs using questionnaires and mapped CME/CPD programmes and regulations through stakeholder questionnaires. Using a co-creation approach, we established an e-learning platform. Evaluation in users was undertaken using questionnaires. Results: HCPs in SEA reported major training gaps relating to the first 1000 days of nutrition and limited impact of existing face-to-face training. Existing pre/postgraduate, residency and CME/CPD programmes did not adequately address the topic. To address these gaps, we produced a targeted e-learning platform with six modules and CME-tests. National ministries, Thai and Malaysian universities, and professional associations endorsed the training platform. To date, over 2600 HCPs have registered. Evaluation shows high acceptance and a very positive assessment. Conclusions: Dedicated e-learning can reduce major gaps in HCP training in SEA regarding nutrition during the first 1000 days of life at scale and is highly valued by both users and key stakeholders.
Keywords
First 1000 days, Early nutrition, Malnutrition, Lifelong health, e-learning, Healthcare professionals, CME, CPD, Southeast Asia
Divisions
fac_med
Funders
Early Nutrition eAcademy Southeast Asia [Grant No: 573651-EPP-1-2016-1-DE-EPPKA2-CBHE-JP],Erasmus Plus Programme Capacity Building,Medical Research Council [Grant No: MC_UU_12011/4],National Institute for Health and Care Research [Grant No: NF-SI-0515-10042]
Publication Title
Nutrients
Volume
12
Issue
6
Publisher
MDPI
Publisher Location
ST ALBAN-ANLAGE 66, CH-4052 BASEL, SWITZERLAND