Acute malnutrition remains a pressing global health issue, especially among children under the age of five. Despite significant progress in combating malnutrition in recent years, millions of children still suffer its devastating consequences. The World Health Organization (WHO) has long been at the forefront of efforts to address this challenge, and its recent guideline represents a crucial step forward in the fight against acute malnutrition.
In light of the seriousness of malnutrition in children under the age of five, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched its groundbreaking guidelines on the prevention and management of wasting and nutritional oedema. This is a direct response to the persistent challenge of acute malnutrition and sets forth evidence-based recommendations aimed at improving the lives of millions of children worldwide.
Persistent Global Issue:
- Despite commitments to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, acute malnutrition remains a significant concern.
- An estimated 45 million children under five worldwide will be affected by acute malnutrition in 2022.
Treatment Gaps:
- In 2022, approximately 7.3 million children received treatment for severe acute malnutrition (SAM), highlighting persistent challenges in treatment coverage.
- Many children with SAM in heavily impacted countries still lack access to comprehensive care necessary for recovery.
The new guideline, developed by a team of experts and endorsed by WHO, provides evidence-based recommendations for the management of acute malnutrition in children under five years old. It aims to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of interventions, ultimately saving more lives and reducing the long-term impact of malnutrition on children’s health and development.
Key Recommendations:
- Child-centred care, emphasizes the interdependence of mothers and infants.
- Promotion of breastfeeding and access to nutrient-dense home diets for both prevention and management.
- Recognition of the crucial role of community health workers in providing evidence-based care.
In addition to treatment, the guideline underscores the importance of preventive measures to reduce the risk of acute malnutrition. This includes promoting exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life, ensuring access to a diverse and nutritious diet, and addressing underlying factors such as poverty, food insecurity, and inadequate access to healthcare. By addressing the root causes of malnutrition, these preventive measures have the potential to significantly reduce the burden of acute malnutrition among children under five.
Implementation Support:
- WHO, in collaboration with UNICEF and other UN agencies, is developing operational guidance to aid policy-makers, program managers, and health workers in implementing the guideline.
- Regional and country workshops, along with stakeholder involvement, are crucial for adapting global guidance to specific contexts for meaningful impact.
WHO’s new guideline to tackle acute malnutrition in children under five represents a significant milestone in the global effort to combat malnutrition. By providing evidence-based recommendations and practical guidance for the management of acute malnutrition, the guideline has the potential to save millions of lives and improve the health and well-being of children around the world. However, its successful implementation will require strong political commitment, adequate resources, and collaboration across sectors and stakeholders.
In essence, WHO’s new guideline is not just a document; it’s a beacon of hope, guiding us towards a future where no child suffers the devastating effects of acute malnutrition. Through collaboration and commitment, Nuflower believes that we can turn this vision into reality, ensuring a healthier, brighter future for generations to come. Together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential, free from the devastating effects of malnutrition.