In a joint initiative to help tackle malnutrition causing stunting among preschoolers in Iba, Zambales, the municipality’s Rotary Club recently partnered with Wyeth Nutrition Philippines through its new premium product, Ascenda Kid, to host a Pre-School Readiness Program attended by 185 children aged three to five years old, along with 171 parents and caregivers.
Stunting is impaired child growth and development due to poor nutrition, repeated infection, and lack of psychosocial stimulation. Among the damaging functional consequences are poor child mental processes and educational performance, eventually leading to low adult earnings, and lost productivity. If followed by excessive weight gain later in childhood, stunting increases risks of adult chronic diseases.
According to the Food and Nutrition Research Institute – Department of Science and Technology, stunting is the most common form of malnutrition in the country, affecting about 27 percent of children three to five years old. Operation Timbang Plus in Iba this year showed 563 children aged zero to 59 months to be stunted or severely stunted. Even while maternal and child health is improving given the local government’s focus, more help is needed. Thus, the Iba Rotary Club seeks to increase access to quality healthcare and nutrition for mothers and children.
The program featured a pediatrician and a nutritionist sharing information on how stunting hinders child development, and what to do to better prepare them for school, such as ensuring good nutrition for preschoolers. Interactive booths gave children the chance to express their dreams by drawing pictures of what they want to become as grownups. Parents captured their kids’ milestone of entering formal education for the first time, as they put on school uniforms.
Towards its purpose of unlocking healthier and happier lives through the power of nutrition, Wyeth Nutrition implements advocacies tackling urgent nutrition and health challenges, especially among children. These advocacies involve raising awareness and partnering with other stakeholders.
“At Wyeth Nutrition, we believe that every child deserves the best start in life, beginning with the right nutrition. We have been pioneering children’s nutrition in the country for more than 100 years. Through research and innovation, we deliver nutrition products that meet the evolving needs of Filipino families. Our belief drives our advocacies and products, including Ascenda Kid as a scientifically formulated solution of choice for lagging growth, sharing our passion for child development and nutrition. We aim to help kids grow today, for their advantage tomorrow,” said Mea Gabunada, consumer marketing manager of Wyeth Nutrition Philippines.
She emphasized that Ascenda Kid milk is clinically proven to result in growth in as early as three weeks.
“Children in rural areas, particularly from low-income households, often face challenges in obtaining an adequate intake of nutrients due to limited access to affordable and diverse food sources. Additionally, a lack of knowledge and awareness among families about the importance of consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods can contribute to this limited nutrient intake. Nutrients, when not obtained in proper amounts will affect the overall growth and development of a child, and one of the manifestations is falling behind on growth,” Ms. Gabunada added.
“I am delighted that the Rotary Club of Iba has partnered with Wyeth through Ascenda Kid. This collaboration allows us to provide even more support and resources for our children and community. With Wyeth we share the goal of enhancing child health and education, and bringing useful services to people,” said Dottie Huang Contreras, Rotary Club president.