By The Pulseline News Desk
A recent nutrition survey has reportedly revealed a troubling reality for Sri Lanka’s child health sector, with the highest number of malnourished children under the age of five being reported from the Uva Province.
Health experts have warned that the findings underscore the need for stronger nutritional interventions and greater public awareness to address both undernutrition and the growing concern of unhealthy dietary habits among children.
Speaking at a nutrition awareness programme held in Badulla this week, Medical Specialist and Nutritionist Dr. Wasana Marasinghe has said the survey had identified a significant number of underweight children in the province. She has also noted that a smaller proportion of children were overweight, highlighting the double burden of malnutrition increasingly seen in many developing regions.
“Malnutrition is not limited to a lack of food. It includes both undernutrition and excessive or unhealthy weight gain caused by poor dietary practices,” she has explained.
The programme was organised under the guidance of Director of the Badulla Teaching Hospital, Dr. Himali Wijegunasekara, with the objective of educating parents and communities on improving children’s nutrition and adopting healthier lifestyles.
Health officials have stressed that the first five years of a child’s life are critical for physical growth, brain development and long-term health outcomes. Poor nutrition during this period can lead to stunting, weakened immunity, learning difficulties and increased vulnerability to disease.
The event featured educational exhibitions, video presentations and practical demonstrations aimed at promoting balanced diets and healthy eating habits among children and families.
A colourful awareness parade had also drawn significant public attention. Beginning at the Badulla Teaching Hospital and proceeding through the town, the procession brought together healthcare professionals, educators, students and community representatives in a united effort to highlight the importance of child nutrition.
Among those participating were Hospital Director Dr. Himali Wijegunasekara, Badulla Mayor Nandana Hapugoda, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine of Uva Wellassa University, Professor Muditha Vidana Pathirana, medical officers, nursing staff, public health inspectors, nursing school trainees, schoolchildren and police officers.
Health authorities say that raising awareness at the community level is essential in addressing the underlying causes of malnutrition, which range from poverty and food insecurity to inadequate knowledge of proper nutrition and feeding practices.
The latest survey findings have renewed calls for targeted nutrition programmes in vulnerable districts, particularly in the Uva Province, where many families continue to face economic challenges that affect access to nutritious food.
Medical experts emphasise that combating malnutrition requires a coordinated approach involving healthcare institutions, schools, local authorities and parents. They argue that improving child nutrition today is not only a health priority but also an investment in the country’s future human capital.
As Sri Lanka continues its broader economic recovery, health professionals warn that ensuring every child has access to adequate nutrition must remain a national priority, particularly in regions where the burden of malnutrition remains alarmingly high.
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