Food is one of the basic needs of human for survival. It has a big role in providing proper nutrition to individuals. According to the WHO, they defined nutrition as the intake of food, considered in relation to the body's dietary needs. Many families cannot provide for this vital necessity.
Undernutrition is still rampant in the Philippines. It is one of the most important public health problems, affecting millions of individuals not only here but also around the world. It accounts for the highest mortality rate among children five (5) years old and below. It also leaves long-lasting physiologic effects.
Undernutrition has been one of the problems identified in Barangay Venus, Sergio Osmeña. To combat this problem, the medical students of Ateneo de Zamboanga University conducted a series of health education to showcase the importance of proper nutrition. Mothers’ classes were held during the immunization and pre-natal schedules at Venus Health Station last November 16-17, 2016. Nutrition lecture at Venus Elementary School was also held last November 25, 2016 where 30 representatives from Grade 3-6 participated.
Furthermore, pamphlets, translated in Visayan, were given to all attendees of the mother class regarding the lecture on the steps and importance of breastfeeding and 10 kumainments program. Pre-test and post-test were given to assess the knowledge on breastfeeding.
Furthermore, the medical students conducted health education geared towards skills and knowledge enhancement of elementary and day care students in the barangay. Proper and balanced nutrition were taught thoroughly by discussing the three (3) basic food groups: Go, Grow and Glow Foods. Educational videos were shown and pamphlets were given. Pre-test and post-test were again done to assess the knowledge of Venus elementary school. Coloring materials and activity were given to day care students. Additional lectures on dental health, nutrition and proper hygiene will be discussed in the coming community exposures.
Results show scores in post-test where higher compared in pre-test for all the nutrition classes conducted (in mothers’ class and Venus Elementary School). Thus, it can be concluded that an increase in the knowledge on the importance of proper nutrition was achieved.
Knowledge on proper nutrition is one of the ways to combat undernutrition in the community. Health education is a never-ending activity which will help the community solve their identified problems. For the coming community exposures, more health teachings will still be conducted in the different programs such as malnutritition.
Written by Juneth Macansantos
