Fighting Malnutrition in Cazale: A Lifesaving Journey
In the past, many children suffering from severe malnutrition visited the clinic in Cazale. Tragically, despite efforts to treat them, some did not survive. This heartbreaking reality prompted Real Hope for Haiti (RHFH) to take action. Determined to make a difference, RHFH sent a team to Jeremie, a remote city, to learn from an institution specializing in malnutrition care.
At HHF in Jeremie, the team received comprehensive training on managing malnourished children and was provided with essential tools to diagnose and monitor their conditions. Upon returning to Cazale, RHFH implemented a new strategy: dedicating Fridays exclusively to addressing malnutrition at the clinic. This focused approach allowed the staff to provide targeted care, significantly improving outcomes and reducing child mortality.
A New Approach to Malnutrition Care
Before this program, children with malnutrition at levels of -2 or -3 were given jars of regular peanut butter or high protein milk. However, these jars were often shared with the entire family, leaving the malnourished child without sufficient nutrients. RHFH introduced a more structured system to address this issue and ensure children received the care they needed.
The program uses specialized tools to measure children’s weight and assess their level of malnutrition. Based on the evaluation, children are enrolled in one of two key programs:
- PNS-Programme de Nutrition Supplémentaire (Supplementary Nutrition Program):
- This program is for children with moderate acute malnutrition.
- Children receive one sachet of Medika Mamba daily. Or a one month supply of Akamil.
- Monthly follow-up appointments are scheduled to track progress.
- PTA-Programme Thérapeutique Ambulatoire (Outpatient Treatment Program):
- This program is for children with severe acute malnutrition without medical compilations
- Children receive dosed medika mamba per their weight.
- Nutritional education is provided to parents.
- Weekly follow-ups ensure close monitoring.
Only the most severe cases, such as children with critical swelling or other life-threatening conditions, are now admitted to the nutrition center for intensive care.
Empowering Families and Saving Lives
One of the program’s greatest strengths is involving parents in their children’s recovery. By taking home nutritional supplements and participating in their care, parents witness their child’s progress firsthand. If a child shows little improvement after two or three visits, a thorough evaluation is conducted to identify any underlying issues. Additional treatments, such as vitamins or medications, may be prescribed if necessary.
Children enrolled in the PTA program also receive anti-infectious medications alongside Medika Mamba. This comprehensive approach has drastically reduced child mortality due to malnutrition and improved the overall quality of life for children and their families.
A Brighter Future
The focused care provided by RHFH’s malnutrition program has transformed lives in the Cazale area. Parents are grateful for the dedicated efforts, and more children are surviving and thriving. By empowering families and addressing malnutrition head-on, RHFH is providing not just hope, but real solutions for a healthier future.