Survey reveals 80pc children anaemic prior to pandemic
THERE was a 3.9 per cent prevalence of undernourishment in the population of Fiji as of 2018.
This, according to the data analysis by Asia Pacific which is part of the Asia and the Pacific SDG Progress Report 2021, launched by ESCAP.
Foundation of Rural Integrated Enterprises and Development (FRIEND) Fiji founder and director Sashi Kiran said a recent national nutrition survey showed that 80 per cent of children were anaemic before the pandemic.
“Recent National Nutrition Survey indicates that 80 per cent of children below two years old and 50 per cent below the age of five were anaemic prior to the pandemic,” she said.
“During this pandemic, thousands of families are struggling to put three nutritious meals on the table.”
She said poor nutrition could have long-term impact on children. “Food is a basic necessity and poor nutrition can have long-term impact on our children.”
The analysis conducted in 2004 also showed that 8 per cent of children under five years old were stunted.
“In the prevalence of malnutrition there were 6.3 per cent of children severely or moderately wasted, while 5.1 per cent of children were found to be moderately or severely overweight in 2004,” the analysis said.
Stunting refers to the impaired growth and development that children experience from poor nutrition, repeated infection, and inadequate psychosocial stimulation.
The report said more efforts were needed to be directed to reduce food insecurity, malnutrition and quality education to achieve Goal 2 which is zero hunger.
“Regional progress in Asia and Pacific on zero hunger is insufficient and must be accelerated everywhere.”