1 In 5 Children In Malaysia Suffer From Stunted Growth Due To Unhealthy Diet
"We want our future generations to be taller than now, not shorter," said paediatric endocrinologist Dr Azriyanti Anuar Zaini.
By May Vin Ang - 16 Jan 2024, 07:15 AM
Cover image via The 2022 National Health and Morbidity Survey reported that 21.2% or one in five children under the age of five in Malaysia are experiencing stunted growth
The finding is concerning as a paediatric specialist is pointing out that height is one of many indicators of the overall health of the country's citizens.
In a recent interview with Berita Harian, Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) paediatric endocrinology consultant Associate Professor Dr Azriyanti Anuar Zaini said the prevalence of stunting among Malaysian children has been increasing since 2015.
"The rising rate of stunting clearly indicates that this issue, although already highlighted in national data, has not been comprehensively addressed," she said.
She further explained that a population experiencing stunted growth is often assumed to be a result of inadequate healthcare facilities, unhealthy eating habits, and living in an unsupportive environment, all of which can adversely impact the country's image.
"We want our future generations to be taller than now, not shorter," she added.
The doctor said the majority of stunting cases result from parents' lack of concern for their children's growth and nutrition
Many parents, she explained, believe that their children's height is not a critical issue, attributing it to their own shorter stature. Consequently, they may not be aware that their child's development does not align with their age.
However, Dr Azriyanti emphasised that if the issue is not addressed early, the problem could persist, leading children to remain stunted into adolescence and adulthood.
"Most cases of stunting among children, especially those under five years old, are caused by nutritional deficiencies. This issue is also closely related to behavioural problems, as found in picky eaters or autism," she explained.
She emphasised the importance of parenting skills and knowledge in guiding children to develop appropriate attitudes towards food, sleep, and exercise from a young age
"The crucial issue here lies in the parents' understanding of the types of foods suitable for growing children. In Malaysia, children consume more rice and noodles, compared to animal protein. The intake of milk is also significantly low, as reported in the 2017 national survey, with 75% of teenagers not consuming adequate amounts of milk or dairy products," she highlighted.
Dr Azriyanti also said children need between nine and 11 hours of sleep a day to ensure the proper release of growth hormones during deep sleep.
Additionally, gravity-based exercise activities such as running, walking, jump rope, and badminton are crucial for stimulating a child's bone development.
She concluded that the issues of stunting and malnutrition are very concerning, especially since the study was conducted across clinics in Malaysia, not just low-income housing areas
"Parents should promptly bring their children to see a doctor if they are significantly shorter than their siblings [when they were the same age] or their peers," she advised.
"If uncertain, consult a specialist because even if the parents are short, it doesn't necessarily mean their children will be stunted. Do away with the 'it doesn't matter' attitude and be more concerned about the growth of our children," she added.
The 2019 National Health and Morbidity Survey found that half of the Malaysian population had excess body weight:
