The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) XII, in collaboration with the National Nutrition Council (NNC) XII, successfully led a two-day Basic Child Growth Standard orientation on August 19 at the Hotel De Viajera in Koronadal City, South Cotabato.

A total of 47 participants, including officials from the Barangay Local Government Units (BLGU), Barangay Nutrition Scholars, Municipal Nutrition Action Officers, Volunteers, and Parent Leaders from the Province of Maguindanao who are part of the Bangsamoro Umpungan Sa Nutrisyon Project (BangUN Project), took part in the said activity.

NNC XII represented by DMOs Ruby Ann Laurito and Flora May Madrona discussed topics regarding the accurate weight and length/height taking, correct computation of age in months and Body Mass Index, and the right classification of the child’s nutritional status using the Weight for Age, Length/Height for Age, and Weight for Length/Height Child Growth Standard. The proper left arm positioning to obtain the correct MUAC measurement, comprehending acute malnutrition, and the significance of the first 1000 days of life were also covered.

DMOII Laurito emphasized the significance of using the appropriate and functioning anthropometric tools in order to accurately measure the child's weight, length or height and to determine the right nutritional status.

As added by DMOII Madrona, there are children who appear healthy but have edema and are diagnosed as severe acute malnourish, thus it is essential that health and nutrition workers thoroughly check the physical status of the child to save them from malnutrition.  (DMOIILaurito/NOIIIFlores/RNPCLaquihon)