Authors: Huiyu Hu, Mamadou Ouattara, Mamadou Bountogo, Valentin Boudo, Thierry Ouedraogo, Clarisse Dah, Elodie Lebas, Till Bärnighausen, Benjamin F. Arnold, Kieran S. O’Brien, Thomas M. Lietman, Ali Sié, Catherine E. Oldenburg
Severe malnutrition is a big health problem for young children in sub-Saharan Africa. This study in Burkina Faso looked at whether using a simple arm measurement (MUAC) by community health workers to find and refer malnourished children for treatment helped improve their health or reduced deaths. Among over 65,000 children screened, only a small number were referred. The results showed no strong impact on the children’s nutrition or survival after six months. The study suggests that while MUAC is easy to use, better referral systems and community support are needed to truly help malnourished children.
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Resource Topic: CHW Role, Screening, malnutrition
Resource Type: Randomized controlled trial
Year: 2025
Region: Africa
Country: Burkina Faso
Publisher May Restrict Access: No