Sudan, October 31-November 20, 1983 : evaluation study of a pilot project in community based growth monitoring and nutrition education in South Kordofan Province

Special evaluation covers the period 1981-11/83 and is based on structured interviews with CHW"s, VM"s, and mothers and on anthropometric analysis. Despite difficulties, the project appears to be working. Illiterate CHW"s and VM"s have been trained to monitor children"s growth, recognize clinical signs of malnutrition, and educate mothers about appropriate feeding practices and preventing dehydration. The CHW"s have weighed and measured children and monitored infant growth in 10 villages; in 5 of these villages, nutrition education has been provided as well. The interview data show that the mothers understand the activities of the CHW, know what a growth chart is used for, and maintain an adequate duration of breastfeeding. Knowledge among mothers of oral rehydration therapy is widespread and oral rehydration salts are readily available in the villages. However, the CHW"s have conducted little or no follow-up of children "at risk". In addition, children in a nearby hospital were treated with intravenous solutions in an unsanitary environment despite the availability of oral rehydration salts. Recommendations are made regarding the UNICEF growth chart, timing of child weighing sessions, the provision of oral rehydration therapy, and CHW reporting and supervision.