New research from SPOON and CoRSU Rehabilitation Hospital is highlighting the need for disability inclusive nutrition in Uganda. In a new article, Undernutrition and feeding difficulties among children with disabilities in Uganda: A cross-sectional study, SPOON and CoRSU share findings about the nutrition and feeding status of 400+ children with disabilities. The research found significant barriers to health services and concerning levels of undernutrition, especially among children with feeding difficulties. These findings underscore the need to expand inclusive nutrition services in Uganda.
Undernutrition was high among children with disabilities
Researchers used Count Me In to assess children’s nutritional status and check for feeding difficulties. The research team found high rates of undernutrition - 45.2% of children were underweight, 38.3% had stunted growth, 16.1% were wasted, and 39.5% had anemia. The most common health conditions were cerebral palsy and cleft lip/palate. Children with feeding difficulties were significantly more likely to be underweight and wasted compared to children without feeding difficulties. When researchers spoke with family members, they described how limited access to services, not having enough food, and feeding challenges all contributed to poor nutrition for their children. Read the full article in Nutrients.
Data lead to action
This research helps to fill an important data gap and makes the case for more focus on nutrition for children with disabilities. Many nutrition surveys don't separate out information by disability. This makes it hard for decision makers to know whether their nutrition programs are reaching children with disabilities. The study adds to growing evidence from Uganda and around the world showing that children with disabilities experience higher rates of malnutrition.
Complex problems need comprehensive solutions
The research shows how undernutrition in children with disabilities comes from a mix of biological and environmental factors. The authors recommend a comprehensive approach to addressing inequities in nutrition. This includes adapting nutrition programs to meet the needs of children with disabilities, collecting better data on the issue, and researching effective ways of reducing barriers to nutrition services. SPOON’s work in Uganda shows that training for health workers, digital tools, support to families, and advocacy for inclusive systems can all be part of the solution.