Abstract:
Achievement of good nutrition is important in Universal Healthcare; hence,
all stakeholders should be updated regarding management of malnutrition and
challenges encountered, especially in resource-constrained societies of the world.
Coexistence of multiple predisposing factors of malnutrition therefore compounds
its diagnosis and management. It is of paramount importance therefore that the
vulnerable population should be provided with adequate knowledge to alleviate the
nutritional challenges they encounter. Capacity building of the healthcare personnel
that are entrusted to serve such vulnerable societies should be improved appropriately.
Healthy nutrition policy makers, implementers, and evaluators in all
healthcare sectors should be conversant with new developments in management of
malnutrition and challenges including those encountered in case studies, such as
one recently encountered in Kenya, during the management of isoniazid induced
pellagra (IPT) in a TB patient also on antiretroviral therapy. Food fortification,
nixtamalization, provision of ready-to-use therapy foods (RUTFs), and innovative
lipid-based nutrient supplements are relatively new areas whose nutrition policy
makers, implementers, and evaluators should be well updated in. As part of nutrition
optimization among those at risk, the nonadherence to exclusive breastfeeding
for at least 6 months, which globally remains unacceptably high (59%), should
urgently be addressed through appropriate and widespread counseling.
