Social Marketing Company

SMC BD logo

Social Marketing Company (SMC) is a non-profit organization based in Bangladesh that focuses on promoting health and family planning through social marketing techniques. Established in 1974, SMC has played a significant role in improving public health outcomes in Bangladesh by making contraceptives and other health products widely available and affordable.

History

SMC was founded in 1974 as a project of the Population Services International (PSI) and the Government of Bangladesh. The organization was initially funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to address the high population growth rate in Bangladesh by promoting the use of contraceptives.

Mission and Objectives

The primary mission of SMC is to improve the health and well-being of the people of Bangladesh by increasing the availability and use of high-quality health products and services. The organization's objectives include:

• Promoting family planning and reproductive health
• Reducing maternal and child mortality
• Preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS
• Enhancing the availability of essential health products

Programs and Initiatives

SMC implements a variety of programs and initiatives to achieve its mission. Some of the key programs include:

Family Planning

SMC promotes the use of contraceptives through social marketing techniques. The organization distributes a range of contraceptive products, including oral contraceptive pills, condoms, and injectable contraceptives, through a network of pharmacies, clinics, and community health workers.

Maternal and Child Health

SMC works to improve maternal and child health by promoting the use of essential health products such as oral rehydration salts (ORS), zinc tablets, and micronutrient supplements. The organization also conducts educational campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of maternal and child health.

HIV/AIDS Prevention

SMC implements programs to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections. These programs include the distribution of condoms and educational campaigns to promote safe sex practices.

Health Communication

SMC uses various communication strategies, including mass media campaigns, community outreach, and interpersonal communication, to promote healthy behaviors and increase the demand for health products and services.

Partnerships and Collaborations

SMC collaborates with a wide range of partners, including the Government of Bangladesh, international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the private sector. These partnerships help SMC to expand its reach and impact.

Impact and Achievements

Over the years, SMC has made significant contributions to improving public health in Bangladesh. The organization has increased the availability and use of contraceptives, reduced maternal and child mortality, and raised awareness about the importance of reproductive health and family planning.

See Also

• Family planning in Bangladesh
• Healthcare in Bangladesh
• Population Services International
• United States Agency for International Development