Pyuthan, October 18

A majority of children in Pyuthan district have been suffering from malnutrition, shows a study.

It is said the children are suffering from malnutrition as parents have not been able to take good care of their children due to poverty and lack of awareness. The study shows that more than 48 percent of children in the district suffer from malnutrition.

District Health Office, Pyuthan, said most of these children suffered from malnutrition as pregnant women did not have nutritious food during pregnancy. The office further added that family members did not pay proper attention to new born babies and their mothers. The study pointed out that family members are unable to provide children and new mothers nutritious food due to poverty.

Chief of the District Health Office, Dr Ram Bahadur KC, said even the children from well off and educated families were malnourished. “Children from both the rich and poor families were found to be suffering from malnutrition,” he added.

According to Demographic Survey, 29 percent children have low weight, while 11 per cent are malnourished in the district. Dr KC said a recent sampling survey reveals that 48 percent of children suffer from malnutrition. He also advised family members to feed their children well and avoid junk food.

Meanwhile, District Health Office has launched an awareness campaign. Dr KC said the awareness programme was launched in coordination with government and non-government offices. Information and Communication Coordinator Dal Bahadur KC of the district health office said malnutrition among children can be reduced if they are taken care of well and provided nutritious foods and balanced diet.