Unbalanced macro and micronutrient intakes are major contributors to adverse health in both developed and developing countries. Nutritional intervention strategies are cost effective ways to reduce mortality and morbidity. Although many countries and groups have developed dietary guidelines, food-based dietary recommendations for vulnerable groups, particularly periconceptional women, pregnant and lactating women, children under age two, minorities in developed countries and majorities in developing countries, have been largely ignored or under-emphasized. The March of Dimes convened a 29-member international task force of nutrition scientists, administrators, and policy makers (the Task Force) to prepare a report defining public health priorities and nutrition strategies that would be most effective in health promotion and morbidity/mortality reduction for women and children. The process involved in developing this report and selected highlights of the report will be presented. The following maternal and child health priorities are addressed in the report: (1) achieving optimal weight for women, (2) ensuring adequate micronutrient reserves, (3) decreasing the incidence of low birth-weight infants and optimizing outcomes for children during the first two years, (4) enhancing strategies to increase optimal breast feeding and complementary feeding practices, and (5) ensuring food safety practices. The Task Force recommends implementation strategies that include preparing publications for professionals, and developing partnerships with existing U.S. and international health organizations to identify potential synergies for education, training, and advocacy efforts. The report frames recommendations (1) within a life-cycle perspective, and (2) within a context that recognizes the contributions of social, economic, and ecological factors to nutritional status. See www.modimes.org
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: 1) identify a new source for food-based dietary guidelines for women and children under two years of age; 2) understand the process by which the guidelines were developed; 3) describe at least two strategies to integrate the new guidelines into existing programs that serve the identified populations
Keywords: Maternal and Child Health, Underserved Populations
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: employee of the March of Dimes