The Journalists’ National Nutrition Dialogue on Advancing Maternal Nutrition, hosted today at the Health Services Academy (HSA) in, brought together a diverse group of experts, stakeholders, and media professionals to address the urgent issue of maternal and child nutrition in Pakistan. The event provided a crucial platform for raising awareness, advocating for policy reforms, and engaging the media in supporting vital health initiatives across the country.
Discussions highlighted the severe impact of malnutrition, with Prof. Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan stressing that 72% of Pakistan’s disease burden is linked to dietary issues and calling for improved adherence to breastfeeding codes.The dialogue featured key insights from prominent figures in the field, including Mr. Anteneh Girma Minhas from UNICEF, who emphasized the importance of early nutrition for long-term health outcomes. Dr. Raza Qazi from Save the Children International and Prof. Dr. Samina Naeem Khalid from HSA discussed the need for a holistic approach to nutrition and the critical benefits of breastfeeding for both mothers and newborns. Additionally, Dr. Ayesha Shiraz addressed the importance of maternal nutrition and the need for tailored interventions, while Prof. Lubna Ejaz underscored the role of maternal education in improving child health outcomes and highlighted barriers to breastfeeding.
The event also focused on the enforcement of the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes, with Dr. Zaina Liaqat and Mr. Naveed Asghar calling for stronger enforcement and greater public awareness. An interactive session led by Mr. Waqar Bhatti and Ms. Eeman Fatima highlighted the media’s role in advocating for maternal nutrition and breastfeeding. The dialogue concluded with a call for increased public awareness, stronger policies, and enhanced collaboration among stakeholders to improve maternal and child health outcomes in Pakistan.
