
As per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) 4, India has a high prevalence of malnutrition – underweight (36%) stunting (38%), and wasting (21%) among under-5 children in India.
Dr Bhavneet Bharti, Professor Pediatrics, Advanced Pediatrics Center, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research Chandigarh, India
The first 1000 days of life is a critical period in the growth and developmental trajectory of every infant. Any compromise in the infant’s nutrition during this period can have adverse consequences.
As per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) 4, India has a high prevalence of malnutrition – underweight (36%) stunting (38%), and wasting (21%) among under-5 children in India.
Among various public health interventions to prevent malnutrition-related morbidity and mortality, optimal breastfeeding followed by the timely introduction of appropriate complementary foods are two most important pillars for prevention of stunting (low height-for-age ) and wasting (low weight-for-height) among infants. Read More…