This technical brief examines the impact and cost-effectiveness of a Family MUAC (Mid-Upper Arm Circumference) intervention implemented through the SPIR II project in Ethiopia’s Amhara and Oromia regions. Family MUAC is a community-based approach that trains parents and caregivers to screen children under five for acute malnutrition, enabling earlier detection, referral, and treatment.
The study compared a control group against two Family MUAC approaches: 1) a minimum model that provided caregivers with basic training, MUAC tapes, and one follow-up supervision visit, and 2) a more intensive model that included ongoing refresher training and supervision. Results showed that both approaches dramatically improved caregivers’ ability to accurately measure MUAC, detect edema, and identify children requiring care. Caregivers who received training were far more likely to screen their children, accurately assess malnutrition, and make appropriate referrals for treatment.
While both models produced substantial improvements, the minimum approach delivered similar gains at a lower cost, making it the most cost-effective option for scale-up. The findings demonstrate that empowering caregivers with simple tools, training, and supportive supervision can strengthen early detection of child malnutrition and expand access to lifesaving nutrition services in resource-constrained settings.
