Maternal malnutrition

Every year, 177,000 deaths in Pakistan are linked to maternal or child malnutrition — something that indicates a chronic nutrition emergency in the country. In the past, both federal and provincial governments have initiated programmes to tackle the problem; however, mismanagement and a lack of coherence among departments have impeded any progress.

One reason for the high prevalence of maternal malnutrition is that a large proportion of the female population belongs to rural areas or small towns where they have limited access to healthcare and nutritional services. The absence of women’s empowerment coupled with a lack of education further prevents women from making informed decisions about their health and childbearing. Consequently, health risks are higher among less educated and lower-income households.

Pakistan is already at the forefront of a malnutrition crisis. Therefore, the issue must be addressed urgently through a comprehensive and tailored approach. The foremost thing to do is to ensure widespread access to affordable maternal healthcare and raise awareness about the importance of healthy nutrition intake. Emerging food insecurity and water scarcity can further intensify the problem. Thus, non-governmental organisations and civil society can lend the Ministry of National Health Services a helping hand by reaching out to rural and marginalised communities to improve nutritional intake and facilitate sanitation services. Pregnant women and young mothers should be encouraged to seek both antenatal and postnatal services to better understand dietary requirements for both themselves and their children. The problem must be addressed effectively, otherwise, it will threaten the livelihoods of many and have a detrimental impact on the coming generations.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 10^th, 2022.

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