FIGHTING AGAINST MALNUTRITION
Adequate nutrition is vital to individuals’ good health and to economic development of Congolese communities in towns and villages.
OHED members believe that reducing malnutrition is particularly effective in saving lives and can contribute to the increase of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita. According to the OHED FOOD CENTER, malnutrition perpetuates a cycle of poverty, discrimination and other inequalities within the Congolese communities.
Generally, individuals suffering from malnutrition in their childhood have disabilities, more health problems throughout their lives and lower income when they are adults. At the core of multiple problems, the fight against malnutrition is essential to achieving development goals in OHED operational zones.
OHED members recognize three main types of malnutrition affecting both children and adults in their operational zones: 1) Undernutrition (or chronic) which persists due to lack of adequate food. This is referred to as stunted growth. 2) Severe undernutrition meaning that children are underweight for their age. This is referred to as emaciation; and, 3) Micronutrient deficiency referring to insufficient intake of vitamins and minerals.
In the OHED operational zones, the most concerning deficiencies are those in vitamin A, iron and iodine. However, excess weight and obesity are linked with overeating, which can lead to diseases such as cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. In fact, the health risks caused by an unbalanced diet are greater than the risks caused by drugs and tobacco both combined.
