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Viewpoint: The role of sanitation in malnutrition – A science and policy controversy in India

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Abstract

Over the past decade, India’s economic growth has been remarkable – yet almost half of India’s children under 5 remain stunted. The National Food Security Bill is the country’s response to this critical situation. Studies reveal that Indian children are chronically undernourished, not only because of lack of food but also because of recurring gastrointestinal infections. The stunting problem revolves more around lack of sanitation than food insecurity. Despite acknowledging that malnutrition is ‘complex and multidimensional’, government action has consisted largely of nutritional interventions and subsidized food. Although improvements in sanitation would be the most effective way to reduce excessively high levels of chronic undernutrition and stunting, a review of policy formulation and implementation reveals deficits and disconnects with available scientific evidence. It is time to change these mistaken assumptions and focus on improving access and use of safe sanitation facilities to achieve India’s nutritional goals.

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The author challenges India's singular focus on nutritional interventions and subsidized food for children. Studies show sanitation and clean water are the keys for India to improve the health and growth of children-in a country with fewer latrines toilets per capita than in many parts of Africa.

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Dobe, M. Viewpoint: The role of sanitation in malnutrition – A science and policy controversy in India. J Public Health Pol 36, 7–14 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1057/jphp.2014.45

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/jphp.2014.45

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