Hubballi: More than 2,400 children have been identified as undernourished in districtwide health screenings conducted since April, raising concern over rise in childhood malnutrition. Most cases were recorded in rural and slum areas.
Of the 1,90,288 children screened, health workers recorded 2,143 cases of moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) and 269 cases of severe acute malnutrition (SAM). Around 120 children are brought to district hospitals daily for malnutrition-related consultations, with 20-25 requiring hospitalisation every month for severe health problems caused by low body weight and acute nutrient deficiencies. Severe cases are referred to the Nutrition Rehabilitation Centre (NRC), where children receive 14 days of specialised nutritional and therapeutic care. The district hospital recorded 234 cases from April 2025 to March 2026 and 95 cases between April and Aug 2026. Dr Sanjay Dumgol, reproductive and child health officer, said of the 1.9 lakh children screened in the district, 269 SAM cases were recorded. All the children were given treatment for 14 days and sent back in good health. Treatment follows 10 standardised steps, including preventing and treating hypoglycaemia. 2,143 cases of moderate acute malnutrition (MAM)
Complementary foods prepared at NRC are introduced later, while mothers receive nutritional guidance.
Dr Prasanna D, head of paediatrics at the district civil hospital, Dharwad, said as cases of malnutrition are on the rise, NRC conducts round-the-clock with its treatment team. Sixteen children are currently under intensive treatment. Children with vomiting or diarrhoea are given oral rehydration solution, followed by starter and catch-up diets to promote weight gain.