KANPUR: With 1.3 million deaths due to malnutrition, it is one of the leading causes for premature deaths in the country followed by pneumonia, diarrhea and tuberculosis.
Uttar Pradesh, being one of the largest states in the country, with around 17% of the country’s population, highest population, stands at third position, behind Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, with over 34% of its children suffering from malnutrition.
While the situation in the rural areas is grave with 48% of under-5 children being stunted, cities don’t fare too well, as 37% children facing the same fate in urban Uttar Pradesh. Highlighting concern over the situation, doctors are focusing on raising awareness across the state.
“Infant mortality and malnutrition rate in the state happens to be highest in the country. However, it is not that this situation cannot be controlled and improved. With due focus in combating protein energy malnutrition in rural and urban areas of the state, the numbers indeed have decreased.”, Dr. Rashmi Kapoor, Director division of Pediatrics , pediatric critical care and Pulmonology, Regency healthcare Kanpur.
There are numerous schemes for curbing malnutrition in our country but its reach is considerably ineffective. Deeper penetration of the facilities, spreading awareness on various diseases and conditions affecting a child with poor nutrition, and increasing private partner engagement will provide considerable impact in reducing malnutrition levels in the state”, Dr. Kapoor added.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this feature are entirely her own and does not necessarily reflect the views of India CSR Network and its Editor.
