A National Nutrition Survey reveals a severe malnutrition crisis among Pakistani women. Over 41% of women suffer from anaemia, while 22.4% are deficient in Vitamin A. These alarming figures highlight the urgent need for action to address malnutrition and undernutrition, especially among women.
The survey also shows significant health disparities. It finds that 4.4% of women are underweight, 24% are overweight, and 13.8% are obese. These statistics reflect the broader health challenges facing women in Pakistan.
On Tuesday, health authorities, government officials, and international organizations called for immediate action. They urged the government to meet its commitments to maternal nutrition. They also stressed the need to align national guidelines with global standards. Developing a comprehensive maternal nutrition package was a key demand.
This collective call to action was formalized in the Bhurban Declaration. The declaration was signed after the National Policy Dialogue on the Economic Case for Maternal Nutrition. The Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination organized the event with Nutrition International (NI) at a local hotel.
During the event, experts highlighted disturbing data from the National Nutrition Survey (NNS) 2018. They pointed to factors such as early marriage, childbearing, low education levels, and limited participation of women in decision-making. These factors worsen nutritional challenges for women and perpetuate poor health outcomes.
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Bhurban Declaration
The Bhurban Declaration urges the government to reverse these alarming trends. It emphasizes the need for every woman in Pakistan to receive essential nutrition, healthcare, and support. This focus on maternal nutrition is crucial for the well-being of women and the health of future generations.
The survey’s statistics underscore the critical need for comprehensive action. Malnutrition affects the health of mothers and children and imposes a significant economic burden on the country. The declaration stresses that improving maternal nutrition will lead to better health outcomes for children and contribute to national development.
Roadmap to Address Challenges
Key stakeholders endorsed the Bhurban Declaration, including the Ministry of National Health Services Regulations and Coordination, provincial health departments, UNICEF, WHO, and Nutrition International (NI). The declaration outlines a strategic roadmap to address these challenges head-on. It serves as a guiding framework for the government and its partners to prioritize women’s health in national policies.
The Bhurban Declaration aims to create a healthier future for Pakistan by focusing on maternal nutrition. It calls for sustained efforts to implement effective policies, raise awareness, and provide the necessary resources to support women’s health. The commitment of all stakeholders represents a significant step toward addressing the malnutrition crisis and improving the lives of millions of Pakistani women and their families.
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