Medicosnext
The World Health Organization (WHO) unveils a pioneering guideline aimed at combating acute malnutrition in children under five, marking a crucial step in the global battle against this persistent challenge. This guideline specifically focuses on managing wasting and nutritional edema, acknowledging the urgency to address a crisis that continues to impact millions of children worldwide.
Despite international commitments to eradicate malnutrition by 2030, the prevalence of acute malnutrition remains alarming, affecting an estimated 45 million children under five in 2022. The newly released guideline emphasizes a child-centered approach and underscores the critical role of breastfeeding and nutrient-rich diets in both preventing and managing acute malnutrition. Moreover, it highlights the pivotal contribution of community health workers in delivering evidence-based care to children facing acute malnutrition.
WHO, in collaboration with UNICEF, is set to develop pragmatic operational guidance, aiming to aid policymakers, program managers, and healthcare workers in implementing the guideline effectively. Regional workshops and stakeholder engagement initiatives will be pivotal in customizing this global guidance for local contexts, ensuring meaningful implementation and tangible impact in the fight against acute malnutrition.
