NUTRI-m : preventing and avoiding children malnutrition

NUTRI-m is a comprehensive project developed by Fundación Recover, that seeks to improve the eating habits of a specific population through nutritional intervention. This project connects clinically monitored hospitals, the strategic use of technology, a computer programme for calculating the nutritional status of children and SMS messages to prompt appointments.. It begins with the meticulous collection of information on the children, using WHO-established criteria to select participants. Personalised nutritional recommendations are provided to them through short messages, along with reminders for medical appointments and follow-up. In addition to basic data, clinical, nutritional and socio-economic information is collected and efficiently managed through the dedicated web application. These approach ensures effective and personalised nutritional changes to improve the health and well-being of the target population.

Child malnutrition in Cameroon is a complex and multifaceted challenge that affects a significant part of the child population. The causes of malnutrition in the country are diverse and are influenced by socio-economic, cultural, political and environmental factors. Cameroon is a diverse country, with a mix of urban and rural areas, each with its own unique challenges in terms of access to nutritious food, health services and education.

 

In many rural areas of Cameroon where Fundación Recover opperates, limited access to nutritious food and quality health services contributes to high rates of child malnutrition. Lack of access to safe water and adequate sanitation also increases the risk of diseases that can lead to malnutrition. In addition, socio-economic factors such as poverty and food insecurity can further exacerbate the problem.

 

In this context, NUTRI-m emerges as an innovative and effective response to address child malnutrition in Cameroon. By combining technology, nutrition education, medical care and community participation, the project is positioned as a comprehensive initiative that can have a significant impact on the health and well-being of children affected by malnutrition. The collaboration between local hospitals and international experts highlights the importance of collaborative, cross sector approaches to address complex public health problems such as child malnutrition in low-resource environments.

 

NUTRI-m is based on the design and development of a comprehensive IT tool for monitoring and managing participants. This tool allows the collection and analysis of relevant data on the health and nutritional status of the participating children, as well as providing personalised recommendations to improve their eating habits. In addition, a system for sending SMS messages for reminders and follow-up medical appointments has been developed, ensuring effective communication with the children’s guardians.

 

The project has multidisciplinary teams in both Spain and Cameroon. In Cameroon, teams have been established in the participating hospitals, led by local medical and nursing professionals. These teams are responsible for the implementation and execution of the project on the ground, including following up with participants, the organisation of mobile clinics and the implementation of awareness-raising workshops involving child nutritionists.

 

Practical Implementation:

The implementation of NUTRI-m involves several stages, from the design and development of the software tool to the training of local staff and the execution of interventions in the field. Necessary technology and equipment, such as computers, printers and mobile phones are provided to ensure the efficient functioning of the project. In addition, clear protocols and procedures are established for the follow-up and care of participants, as well as for the organisation of mobile clinics and awareness-raising workshops.

 

Training and Communication:

For Fundación Recover, training of local staff is a key aspect of the project to ensure the quality and effectiveness of the programme. Training sessions are carried out both in Spain and in Cameroon, where staff are trained on the use of the computer tool, carrying out nutritional assessments and how to organise awareness-raising activities. In addition, effective communication channels are established between the teams in Spain and Cameroon, ensuring adequate coordination and constant feedback throughout the project.

The deployment of NUTRI-m involves a multi-faceted strategy ranging from practical implementation to long-term community impact. An initial preparation phase is set up, including the procurement and configuration of technological equipment, training of local staff and the organisation of mobile clinics and awareness-raising workshops. Once the project was launched, participants received regular follow-ups…, with the collection of health and nutrition data was collected and personalised recommendations were given by SMS messages.

 

Scope of the programme:

Since its inception in 2021, the NUTRI-m programme has registered a total of 3,986 children in 11 health centres.Of the total 3,986 children registered, 3,726 have completed the campaign in different phases.A pilot phase in Cameroon covered two regions, reaching 690 children. Subsequently, the scale-up included two other regions of the country, serving an additional 1,154children, and a third, reaching Côte d’Ivoire, reaching 1,882 minors.

 

Initial nutritional status:

Of the children who completed the campaign, 62% were in a stable nutritional status.

– 10% of the children were acutely malnourished, while 28 per cent were chronically malnourished.

 

Significant improvements in health:

– 55% of the acutely malnourished children improved their health, whilst 24% of the chronically malnourished children also showed significant improvements.

-62% of the children improved their weight index, 55% improved their weight/height index, 60% improved their height index and 54% improved their body mass index.

– 12% of the participants improved their food intake, thanks to the vitamin supplements and nutritious food provided, as well as the continuous training received.

 

Thus, the impact of NUTRI-m extends beyond the immediate improvement in the nutritional status of the participating children. Through the assessment of dietary habits, dietary diversity and factors associated with malnutrition, the project contributes to a deeper understanding of the determinants of child malnutrition in Cameroon. In addition, NUTRI-m’s comprehensive approach, combining interventions at community and hospital level, has the potential to establish a replicable model for addressing child malnutrition in other affected regions.

 

The ongoing evaluation of the project, coupled with the scalability of successful interventions, promises a lasting impact on the health and well-being of Cameroonian children. By offering a comprehensive and sustainable solution to a significant public health problem, NUTRI-m offers real hope in the fight against child undernutrition and represents an important step towards achieving broader development and well-being goals in the region.