The number of children struggling with malnutrition has surged by 50 percent this year compared to the previous year at a provincial hospital in Herat.
Based on the figures of the doctors, more than 2,000 children suffering from malnutrition have been registered at a children’s hospital in Herat over the past six months.
At least 120 children affected by malnutrition are currently under treatment at a provincial hospital supported by Doctors Without Borders.
The mothers who brought their children to the hospital said they are facing economic challenges that are also affecting their children.
“The health condition of my child was bad. His situation is better now. He couldn’t breathe but he is better now ,” said Fatima, who brought her child to the hospital.
“I didn’t receive for one day meat, beans, fruit or good food to eat,” said Ab Bara, a mother of the malnourished child.
Several children have lost their lives due to malnutrition, but officials have not provided details about the number of victims.
Afghanistan is facing a humanitarian disaster.
“The number of patients increased in June and July. The reason is also diarrhea. In January and February, the number of patients increases due to children being affected by pneumonia,” said Zahid Khalid, a doctor at the Doctors Without Borders center.
“The reason for this disease is poverty and having a lot of children and the families cannot take good care of them,” said Fawzia Azizi, a doctor.
According to the UNICEF, three million children are suffering from malnutrition in Afghanistan.
