New hope exists for women and children abroad suffering from malnutrition. Eric Muñoz, Interntaional Policy Analyst for Bread for the World Institute recently published a briefing paper entitled “New Hope for Malnourished Mothers and Children."
The paper highlights recent positive focus on global nutritional challenges. Muñoz notes the work of US Agency for International Development (USAID) and the World Bank, as well as recent case studies that aim to combat malnutrition.
Women and children generally suffer the most from malnutrition. Mothers suffering from malnutrition often die during childbirth or pass along poor health conditions to their children, who are then impacted in the long-term as it directly impacts physical growth and cognitive development. This is a global challenge.
Muñoz’s work shows, however, that change is possible. One interesting case study on malnutrition reduction was conducted in Thailand. In sum, the government-driven plan, supported by multiple ministries and significant financial resources, aimed to empower individuals to make changes to their diet and food selection. Ultimately, Muñoz points out that this program “reduced child malnutrition by 75 percent over two decades.” This lesson could also apply to other nations struggling with similar issues.
Muñoz’s analysis points to other successful cases and strategies that outline mechanisms to improve malnutrition. You can link to his briefing paper and other works by Bread for the World here: http://www.bread.org/BFW-Institute/briefing-papers/
You can follow Bread for the World's blog at http://www.breadblog.org/.
