As part of the Pre-ICON 2026 scientific activities, Indus Hospital & Health Network (IHHN) successfully conducted a workshop titled “Community-Based Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM): From Screening to Recovery” on January 12, 2026, at the Transfusion Hall, Blood Center, IHHN Korangi Campus, Karachi. The session aimed to strengthen the capacity of healthcare professionals to effectively address acute malnutrition at the community level using evidence-based approaches.
The workshop focused on practical implementation of Pakistan’s National CMAM Guidelines, with emphasis on early identification, appropriate management, and continuity of care from screening through recovery. Participants were guided on standardized anthropometric measurements, admission and discharge criteria, treatment protocols, and referral mechanisms to ensure timely and effective care for malnourished children.
Key discussions highlighted the importance of early detection, community outreach, and active case finding, along with strengthening caregiver counselling and promoting Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices. The session also emphasized monitoring, reporting, and follow-up mechanisms to support sustained recovery and prevent relapse.
Participants engaged in interactive discussions on integrating CMAM services within primary healthcare and broader national nutrition strategies, ensuring a coordinated and multi-sectoral response to malnutrition. Practical insights were shared on linking community-based care with facility-level services and public health programs.
By the end of the workshop, participants demonstrated improved understanding and practical skills in screening and classifying acute malnutrition, applying national protocols, strengthening caregiver engagement, and supporting effective monitoring and referral systems.
The workshop was facilitated by Dr. Naveed Bhutto, MNCH Expert and Public Health Specialist (National Health Support Program – GoS/World Bank Collaboration), Ms. Anzeela Kamran, Nutritionist and Senior Program Associate at IHHN, and Dr. Syeda Zufesha Zehra, Dentist and Public Health Specialist, Research Associate at IHHN.
A total of 13 participants attended the session, contributing to meaningful knowledge exchange and reinforcing IHHN’s commitment to improving community-based nutrition care through capacity building and evidence-driven practices.