The Government Medical Officers Association has submitted a five-point proposal to minimise the impact of malnutrition and ensure that future generations don’t fall victim to malnutrition.
The GMOA said a majority are resorting to reducing the food intake or compromising on the quality of food owing to the food shortage and increase in prices of food items.
The GMOA citing this as a critical situation submitted a five-point proposal to avoid malnutrition.
The first proposal includes conducting a scientific follow-up on the present situation and assessing the island-wide infant malnutrition rate and the risk of malnutrition.
The GMOA said the public must be educated on myths pertaining to food and the need for a quality diet through alternative foods.
The second proposal includes creating a basic understanding of a nutritious diet for the public.
The third proposal includes expanding the already initiated programme of home gardening and animal husbandry to a national programme.
The GMOA also highlighted the need to educate the public of a diet that is rich in protein such as meat, fish, milk, eggs, and dried fish and to formulate a relief programme targeting low income families.
The Association added funds must be allocated for such a programme through the interim budget.
The final proposal includes ensuring a nutrition promotional programme targeting expectant women and girls.
