Can text messages fight anemia? new trial tests digital nutrition for teens

NCT ID NCT07493772

Not yet recruiting Disease control Sponsor: Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Aug 06, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tests whether adding digital nutrition education—via SMS or group sessions—to daily micronutrient supplements can lower anemia rates in 1,200 adolescents aged 15-19 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. All participants get supplements and basic nutrition info; some also receive weekly texts or in-person digital group sessions. The goal is to see if these extra nudges improve supplement use and reduce anemia over 9 months.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS) and digital nutrition education (SMS/WhatsApp messages and group sessions)
What this could lead to: If successful, this approach could offer a low-cost, scalable way to reduce anemia and improve nutrition among adolescents in low-resource settings.
What could go wrong: This is a behavioral intervention trial, not a drug test. Results may be limited by adherence to supplements or engagement with digital messages, and may not apply outside Tanzania.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anemia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANEMIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Dar Health and Demographic Surveillance System Area

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

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