A major clinical trial launched recently will investigate whether a new nutritional supplement could be a potential replacement for the iron and folic acid (IFA) tablets currently provided to pregnant South African women through the public healthcare system, reports Joburg Gazette.
The MMS SA 2025 Clinical Trial was officially launched at the Wits RHI Shandukani Clinical Research Site in Johannesburg, in which researchers will examine the effectiveness of Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation (MMS), a single tablet containing a blend of 15 essential vitamins and minerals. The findings are expected to provide valuable evidence that could guide future maternal nutrition policies and improve antenatal care services nationwide.
The trial will be conducted at Esselen Clinic in Johannesburg, Hillbrow Community Health Centre and the Wits RHI Hill Solomon Building, where pregnant women receiving antenatal care will participate in the study.
Researchers will compare the acceptability of the MMS supplement with the current iron and folic acid treatment while also monitoring how consistently participants take the supplements.
At the launch, which also marked the beginning of participant recruitment, representatives from the Sight and Life Foundation also outlined the organisation’s commitment to improving maternal nutrition through evidence-based research. The foundation supports projects that focus on better nutrition during the first 1 000 days of life, working alongside government and research partners to tackle malnutrition.
The MMS SA 2025 Clinical Trial is led by Wits RHI in partnership with the Sight and Life Foundation, DG Murray Trust and Hold My Hand, with support from the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation.
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