The Many Faces and Cases of Child Malnutrition at FAME
Viola* is in FAME’s inpatient ward with her 2-year old son who is suffering from Kwashiorkor, a severe form of malnutrition that presents as swelling due to water retention from lack of protein in his diet. As a result of this, he is also suffering from kidney problems. Admitted next to her is Naeku, who sits with her 2-year-old. Her son is also suffering from severe acute malnutrition, caused by a deficiency of micronutrients, resulting in dangerously low weight and severe muscle wasting.
Malnutrition is prevalent in Northern Tanzania, where rearing livestock is the main source of food . The nutritional status of pastoralists varies with the seasons, with high malnutrition during droughts, which have become increasingly worse, as FAME’s Social Worker, Kitashu Nganana explains:
“We have treated eight children already this month with severe malnutrition cases, and we keep receiving new patients every other day. The situation is dire.”
Viola came to FAME when her son presented with a swollen face, legs and an enlarged tummy. She was not aware that this was caused by malnutrition.
“I did not know what was happening. The boy was sick and I knew he needed to see a doctor, but I live with my grandmother and we don’t have money. We could not afford the journey to FAME. However, a well-wisher sponsored my trip and helped me get here.” - Viola
The government of Tanzania, through its National Nutrition Strategy, plans to develop community-based programs to help rural communities address the causes of malnutrition. The government aims to reduce the rate of chronic malnutrition to less than 25% by 2025.
“I’m glad my son is getting help. I’m listening to the doctors and I’m learning about this disease. Now I can afford a smile, as I finally understand what’s wrong with him, and how I can help make it better.”
Interested in supporting FAME and its work to provide pediatric education around malnutrition? Click here to donate: https://fameafrica.kindful.com/
*While the patient’s name has been changed to protect privacy, permission was secured to share her photos and story with FAME supporters, and to raise awareness of available medical care at FAME Medical