MATERNAL and CHILD NUTRITION: There is still so much to do

What a record reveals that only a few countries have achieved certain targets:

• 5 countries have achieved breastfeeding targets;
• 4 implemented actions to combat stunting;
• 96 implemented actions to combat underweight, 3 against overweight and childhood obesity;

• no country has met targets for reducing the rate of low birth weight or anemia among women of childbearing age.

Good news though, Sub-Saharan Africa recorded promising progress on stunting and underweight, surpassing expected reductions through improved public health policies and resources;

A major global concern: the increasing prevalence of overweight among children worldwide which highlights the complex challenges of global nutrition.

In conclusionsummarize the researchers in their press release, despite some progress, “The overall situation remains challenging, particularly for low- and middle-income countries that bear a disproportionate burden of diseases linked to nutrition gaps.

It is urgent to work on improving maternal and child nutrition, along these major lines, in order to preserve the health of future generations.”