DOST-FNRI: 4 of 10 Ilonggo kids are stunted
Four out of ten Ilonggo children, 0-5 and 6-10 years old, suffer from stunted growth, according to a report released by the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI).
The report was carried out during the 7th National Nutrition Survey: Regional Dissemination Forum and Workshop last March 2, 2010 at the Iloilo Grand Hotel. The report is based on the results of the FNRI’s NNS in 2008.
Stunting is an expression of long-term nutritional inadequacy and indicates chronic malnutrition in children lacking essential nutrients. Also known as underheight, stunting is associated with poor sanitary conditions, repeated infections, diarrhea and inadequate child care common among low-income groups.
Bleak as it may seem, the good news is that interventions for stunted growth come in simple and easy packages like exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life of the newborn together with nutritionally adequate and appropriate food to complement breastmilk six months onwards.
Adequate nutrition for mothers and routine Vitamin A and other micronutrient supplementation need not be expensive and most services are free at the barangay health center.
For more information on food and nutrition, technology transfer and commercialization, or any of the DOST programs and projects, please contact DOST Regional Office VI at telephone numbers 320-0093, 320-0907 or 320-0908 or at any Provincial S&T Center near your area. (DOST VI)
