FARAH CITY (Pajhwok): The Public Health Department of western Farah province reports an alarming increase in the number of malnourished children in the province.
In the first three months of this year, 2,686 children were diagnosed with malnutrition, a significant rise from 1,821 cases reported during the same period last year.
Dr. Abdul Ghani, head of the Malnutrition Department at the Public Health in Farah, confirmed the rise in the cases.
He attributed the increase to a combination of factors including diarrhea, hot weather, poverty, and inadequate food supply.
Dr. Farid Ahmad, a specialist in the children's department at Farah Provincial Hospital, also echoed these concerns, noting the alarming trend in rising malnutrition cases.
Families in the province are bearing the brunt of this crisis. Hawa, a resident of Khaksafed district, shared her struggles, saying, "My 7-month-old child is malnourished because I couldn't provide sufficient food to him or breast fed him."
Another mother, Halima, explained her situation at the provincial hospital: "I couldn’t afford powdered milk, and the alternative options like cow's or goat's milk are not suitable for my child. Now, he is sick and bedridden."
Local residents also called on the government and aid organizations to address the critical issue urgently.
Doctors emphasize that malnutrition occurs when a diet lacks adequate nutrients, leading to health issues such as growth retardation and weight loss.
Efforts to address malnutrition in Farah province are imperative, as the rise in cases underscores the urgent need for improved food security and health interventions.
sa/ma
