Health - A New Prescription
While conducting village surveys, we came across a host of health issues among the people. We observed that families do not eat healthy meals partly because they are not educated about proper nutrition. The children suffer from various forms of under nutrition – wasting, stunting, underweight and deficiencies in vitamins and minerals. On the other hand, low-protein diets and over-consumption of carbohydrates in the form of rice, also leads to obesity, diabetes and dental caries.
YMWS, in association with Medical Checks for Children (MCC), Netherlands, organised annual health camps for the students of the Khelaghar schools and Diksha.
Almost 98% of the students were found to be suffering from cough and cold, abdominal pain, nausea, headache, skin problems, iron deficiency or acute worm problems. 70% had dental caries. According to the paediatricians in the MCC team, the lack of proper nutrition was a major reason for the children’s poor health.
Teachers’ workshops have been held to create awareness about the importance of a balanced diet, hygiene and sanitation. The teachers have also been trained in the aftercare methods of circumcision. These guidelines have been shared with the parents.
There is much greater awareness among the teachers, parents and students. The breakfast programme, hand washing and brushing have been incorporated into the daily routine of the students. Dental camps are held at regular intervals. De-worming campaigns are also carried out from time to time along with the distribution of iron tablets prescribed by doctors.
