Department of Health-CAR gave an orientation on the World Health Organization child growth standards to the 60 newly appointed nurses, midwives, barangay nutrition scholars, and health workers in Abra at the Operation Center, PDRRMC Building, Calaba on June 25-29, 2019.

This will equip them on proper measuring of weight and height of children to determine their nutritional status and to implement nutrition programs in their assigned areas.

DOH-CAR nutritionist dietician Candice Salingbay said through these health workers, underweight and overweight children will be given interventions like feeding program and micro-nutrient supplementation while their parents are subjected to counselling.

She said they also pay attention to pregnant women since proper nutrition starts in the womb. Pregnant women can also avail of free vitamin supplements, vaccinations, and check-ups.

Salingbay appeals to parents to support breastfeeding and be role models for a healthy lifestyle.

She said staying healthy includes healthy food choices, avoiding sugar-sweetened beverages and processed foods, regular physical activity or exercise, and a smoke-free environment.