One of the main tools in the fight against malnutrition is prevention.
Periodically assessing the nutritional status of children is essential for early intervention in malnutrition cases.
This is generally done by measuring the following parameters:
1 - Weight-to-height ratio. The child's weight is compared to the "normal" weight for his/her height. If it is below the international standards established, the child is considered underweight or affected by acute malnutrition.
2 - Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC): This is a widely used method because it requires very few tools, just a small bracelet similar to a tailor's tape measure. It is particularly suitable for children aged 6 months to 5 years. A MUAC value below 12.5 cm indicates moderate acute malnutrition, while below 11.5 cm indicates severe acute malnutrition, meaning the child is at risk of death.
3 - Presence of edema in the lower limbs and feet is a sign of severe acute malnutrition. Usually, in these cases, children present with widespread swelling in the face, legs, and feet.
NutriAid implements screening campaigns to facilitate early detection of malnutrition cases, which is a fundamental step toward ending hunger worldwide.
