ICMR Launches Study to Combat Childhood Malnutrition

Childhood nutrition in India faces formidable challenges, influenced by a complex interplay of socio-economic factors.

Highlights:

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is actively addressing childhood undernutrition in India by launching a comprehensive study
India faces significant nutritional challenges due to poverty, limited healthcare access, and a lack of nutritional awareness
The ICMR's multi-center research approach aims to recognize the importance of this age window in shaping a child's future health and development

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has taken a proactive step towards tackling childhood undernutrition in India.

Recognizing the prevalence of poor dietary practices during early childhood, the ICMR has announced the establishment of a comprehensive study aimed at ensuring infants receive adequate and optimal nutrition ().

Childhood Obesity Vs Malnutrition- A Spotlight On WHO Obesity Measurement For Kids
Special report on the WHO recommended obesity measurement tests for kids, to tackle malnutrition and childhood obesity, with a special emphasis on the looming obesity epidemic in the western world.

‘Malnutrition affects India's GDP by 4% and productivity by 8%. #malnutrition #childhealth #medindia’

Prevailing Nutritional Challenges

One of the pressing issues in India has been the inadequate nutrition provided to children between the ages of six and 24 months. Childhood nutrition remains a formidable challenge due to a complex interplay of socio-economic factors.

High levels of poverty, limited access to healthcare, and insufficient awareness contribute to undernutrition among children. Effective interventions, education, and public health initiatives are crucial in addressing this issue.

The ICMR has acknowledged the shortcomings in complementary feeding practices during this critical period and the potential consequences, including wasting, stunting, and undernutrition.

A Multi-Center Research Approach by ICMR

In response to this challenge, the ICMR is in the process of forming a team to conduct a multi-center research study. This study will assess the impact of introducing appropriate take-home foods along with behavior change interventions. The objective is to encourage and establish sound complementary feeding practices that are nutritionally optimal, meeting the nutritional needs of young children.

One of the primary concerns the ICMR aims to address is the quality and appropriateness of complementary foods given to children between six and 24 months of age. This age window plays a pivotal role in shaping a child's future, influencing their growth trajectory, development, and overall potential. Ensuring that they receive the right nutrition during this phase is crucial.

Child Nutrition Indicators Improve but Malnutrition Worsens: NFHS-5 Report
National Family Health Survey–5 findings indicates that the levels of stunting, wasting &underweight has improved however malnourished children numbers continue to be high.

Key Factors Influencing Child Malnutrition in India

Inadequate availability and accessibility of nutritious food options contribute to child malnutrition
A lack of awareness regarding proper nutrition hampers the ability to provide children with well-balanced diets
Widespread poverty limits many families' capacity to afford and access nutritious meals for their children
Prevalent diseases such as malaria and measles can worsen malnutrition in children
Maternal health plays a pivotal role, as anemic mothers may struggle to provide adequate nutrition for their children
Deep-rooted socio-cultural factors, such as gender disparities in food distribution, can exacerbate malnutrition
Households with more children may face challenges in providing sufficient nutrition to all members
Substandard housing, inadequate sanitation, and water supply issues can hinder children's overall health and nutrition

COVID Crisis can Impact Child Nutrition
In India, the present pandemic situation could further impact child nutrition and service delivery across the country that is in the grip of a ferocious second wave, said the UN Children's Fund UNICEF.

Impact of Child Malnutrition

Children experience stunted growth and delayed physical development, affecting their overall health
Malnourished children often face cognitive and intellectual challenges, including difficulties with learning, memory, attention, and problem-solving
Malnourished children are at a heightened risk of developing chronic diseases later in life, such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and obesity, underscoring the importance of addressing child malnutrition comprehensively

India loses up to 4% of its gross domestic product and 8% of its productivity due to child malnutrition.

The time span from six to 24 months marks a critical developmental phase for children. It lays the foundation for their growth and health in the future. The ICMR's initiative seeks to rectify the deficiencies in complementary feeding practices, thus promoting optimal growth, development, and overall well-being among India's youngest generation.

As the ICMR embarks on this ambitious research study, they have invited expressions of interest from researchers across India to contribute to this significant endeavor.

This initiative holds the promise of addressing childhood undernutrition and setting the stage for a healthier, more prosperous future for India's children.

Reference:

Request for Expression of Interest (EoI) to develop and evaluate efficacy/effectiveness of providing appropriate take home foods in combination with behaviour change intervention to reduce malnutrition (wasting/stunting/underweight) - (https://main.icmr.nic.in/sites/default/files/seminars/EoI_03102023.pdf)

Source-Medindia