KARACHI:
Nutritional deficiency poses a significant public health challenge in Pakistan, affecting millions of lives and contributing to various diseases. The Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with the super floods in 2022, has exacerbated health challenges across the country, particularly in impoverished regions. Residents in rural and economically disadvantaged areas struggle to access adequate nutrition and healthcare support.
Soaring inflation is restricting people’s capacity to afford essential food items and necessary supplements forcing them to compromise on these basic needs. This coupled with inadequate sanitation and hygiene has raised the risk of malnourishment and other health issues. Pregnant women, lacking access to proper diet and healthcare, give birth to undernourished children, further contributing to infant mortality rates and stunted growth.
Poverty, inadequate healthcare infrastructure and social inequality have aggravated the situation. To break this vicious cycle, concerted efforts are needed to provide healthcare assistance and foster awareness among the people. Health infrastructure must be enhanced and food prices adjusted to make essential nutrients more affordable. It is crucial to address these issues with conviction as doing so will ultimately contribute to the growth and progress of the nation.
Mehboob Malik
Panjgur
Published in The Express Tribune, December 1st, 2023.
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