Nutrition in developing countries

Abstract

An international panel of scientists of various agencies and institutions concerned about nutritional problems in developing countries held a Seminar for German Technical Assistance Personnel working in Africa in Kenya during December 1977 to discuss the complex problems of nutrition assessment means for improvement and development policies. The primary objective was to evaluate ways and means as to how recent scientific knowledge could best be used to solve widespread nutritional problems. This article summarizes the detailed review of various aspects of the nutrition situation given in this report. Some of the recommendations presented are given in more detail. The review of the nutrition situation in developing countries was dealt with under 4 major headings: epidemiology underlying causes and effects of malnutrition; selected aspects of physiology; practical measures for the improvement of nutritional status through health services; and the role of health services in the planning implementation of nutrition improvement programs. The multiplicity of nutrition information presented was discussed by 4 working groups with the following topics: 1) the responsibilities of and the means for health workers to improve nutrition and their contribution in establishing a synthesis between cure and prevention 2) the role of artificial feeding and food supplementation in infant feeding in developing countries 3) how can nutrition education be more effective and 4) nutrition and development planning. The recommendations are aimed at field workers decision makers and various aid agencies. Only the recommendations for the topics concerned with nutrition and development planning are outlined. In the past the approach of both nutritionists and planners to the problem of reducing deprivation has been to concentrate on maximizing the growth of food supplies and economic resources. Now there is increasing recognition by planners that economic growth as measured by gross national product (GNP) does not effectively deal with the problem. It is now suggested that planning strategies should be directed toward meeting the basic needs of impoverished people. Food deserves highest priority in development planning. Economic considerations have too often taken precedence without regard to social factors and the general quality of life of the people concerned. Planning objectives should take account of the dynamic nature of the problems. Thus there should be an analysis of trends of the indicators of malnutrition and the number of people in the target group. Project modification is outlined.