Home / Health / Maharashtra Fights Child Malnutrition with Joint Health Screenings
Maharashtra Fights Child Malnutrition with Joint Health Screenings
5 Apr
Summary
- Health department to monitor child growth with ICDS for the first time.
- Screenings will identify severely malnourished children for treatment.
- Study shows high rates of stunting, underweight, and wasting in children.
Maharashtra is launching a significant joint initiative involving the health department and the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) to enhance child growth monitoring. This collaboration aims to systematically track the nutritional status of children aged 0 to 6 years across anganwadi centers.
Utilizing Growth Monitoring Devices and the Nutrition Tracker app, the program will scientifically record data. Children diagnosed with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) will be promptly treated, including referrals to health facilities. This proactive approach seeks to address the state's persistent malnutrition challenges.
A recent study revealed alarming malnutrition rates in Maharashtra, with 35% of children under five stunted, 35% underweight, and 26% wasted. North Maharashtra shows the highest incidence, linked to lower household incomes, while the Konkan region, though better, still exceeds acceptable levels.
The joint screenings, occurring every six months, will pinpoint vulnerable centers and regions needing focused interventions. An action plan will be developed and executed in coordination with ICDS. The initiative emphasizes door-to-door outreach and scheduled appointments to ensure maximum coverage and efficient screening processes.
