‘Protocol for Community Management of Malnutrition in Children’ Launched

The ‘Protocol for Community Management of Malnutrition in Children’ was officially introduced during a national event held at Vigyan Bhawan on October 10, 2023. The event was chaired by the Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani, and attended by the Minister of State for WCD and Ayush, Dr. Munjapara Mahendrabhai, as well as the Secretaries of the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) and the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MH&FW). This protocol is a significant step in addressing child malnutrition in the community.

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What is Malnutrition?

Malnutrition is a condition that results from eating a diet that lacks essential nutrients. It can be caused by a deficiency of calories, protein, vitamins, or minerals. Malnutrition can also be caused by an inability to absorb nutrients from food.

Types of malnutrition

There are two main types of malnutrition: undernutrition and overnutrition. Undernutrition is the most common type of malnutrition and is caused by a deficiency of calories, protein, vitamins, or minerals. Overnutrition is caused by consuming too many calories, protein, or fat.

Undernutrition can lead to a number of health problems, including:

Stunted growth
Wasting
Underweight
Micronutrient deficiencies

Overnutrition can also lead to a number of health problems, including:

Obesity
Diabetes
Heart disease
Stroke

Malnutrition is a serious problem that can affect people of all ages. It is especially common in developing countries and among children.

Causes of malnutrition

There are a number of factors that can contribute to malnutrition, including:

Poverty
Food insecurity
Lack of access to clean water and sanitation
Poor hygiene
Chronic diseases, such as HIV/AIDS and malaria
Disasters, such as drought and conflict

Treatment for malnutrition

The treatment for malnutrition depends on the cause and the severity of the condition. In some cases, malnutrition can be treated by simply eating a more nutritious diet. In other cases, medical intervention may be necessary.

Prevention of malnutrition in children

The best way to prevent malnutrition is to eat a healthy diet and to practice good hygiene. It is also important to have access to clean water and sanitation.

About Protocol for Community Management of Malnutrition in Children

Addressing malnutrition is a complex challenge that requires coordinated efforts. The ‘Saksham Anganwadi’ and ‘Mission Poshan 2.0’ initiatives under the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) aim to combat malnutrition through a multi-sectoral approach, involving collaboration with various key ministries and departments, as well as the active participation of states and union territories.

One crucial aspect of Mission Poshan 2.0 is the identification and treatment of malnourished children. This involves identifying, treating, and managing malnourished children both at Anganwadi Centers and within communities. Knowing when to refer them to Nutritional Rehabilitation Centers (NRC) or for medical assistance is critical, highlighting the importance of close cooperation between the Ministry of Women and Child Development and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Protocol for Community Management of Malnutrition in Children

Previously, the treatment of children with Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) was primarily facility-based. However, a significant step has been taken with the development of a standardized national ‘Protocol for Management of Malnourished Children.’ This protocol, created by the MWCD with inputs from the MH&FW, provides detailed guidance on identifying and managing malnourished children at the Anganwadi level, including decisions regarding referral, nutritional management, and follow-up care.

Shubham Mittal

Shubham Mittal is a renowned current affairs writer and expert in government exam preparation, inspiring readers with insightful articles and guiding aspirants with his expertise.

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