Health Department prioritises mother-child wellbeing

BUREWALA: The Health Department launched a new campaign, “The First Thousand Golden Days,” to focus on the health of mothers and children in the crucial first 1,000 days of life. A seminar was held on Tuesday to educate health workers who will lead this initiative.

The seminar was presided over by CEO Health Dr Siddique Ahmed Baloch, Dr Hafiz Nauman Hasan Chaudhry, District Coordinator, and Social Organiser and Monitoring Officer Shahid Parvez. The participants highlighted the importance of breastfeeding. Dr Siddique Baloch emphasized the crucial role of proper maternal nutrition and breastfeeding during the first 1,000 days, encompassing pregnancy and infancy. He stressed the importance of mothers understanding how their diet directly impacts their child’s development, not only for the family but for the nation as a whole.

Dr Hafiz Nauman Hasan Chaudhry explained that Lady Health Workers (LHWs) will play a pivotal role in the campaign. They will conduct group sessions throughout the district to ensure every home receives vital information on early childhood development. The LHWs will also be trained to identify any potential complications in mothers and children and make timely referrals to hospitals or health centers when necessary.

Chaudhry Shahid Parvez briefed the LHW supervisors on breastfeeding. The training covered strategies for LHWs to educate pregnant women on ensuring a safe pregnancy, while also guiding breastfeeding mothers and their children. The seminar concluded with an awareness walk led by Dr Siddique Baloch.