Community Management of Acute Malnutrition

Program Overview

Community-based Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM) is a proven approach to treating severe acute malnutrition in children under five through community-based care and support.

Key Program Components

• Early Detection: Community health workers screen children for malnutrition using MUAC (Mid-Upper Arm Circumference) tape
• Community Mobilization: Engaging communities to identify and refer malnourished children
• Outpatient Treatment: Providing ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTF) and essential medicines
• Inpatient Care: For children with severe complications requiring hospital admission
• Follow-up and Monitoring: Regular tracking of children's progress and recovery
• Prevention Activities: Integrating nutrition education to prevent future episodes

Program Impact

• 90% recovery rate among children treated
• 85% of children reached within the first week of screening
• Reduced mortality rates among malnourished children
• Strengthened community health systems

Success Story

"When we detected my daughter's malnutrition early, she was enrolled in the program and received treatment at our local health center. Within a few months, she recovered completely. I am grateful to the community health workers who saved her life."- Sarah, mother, Ethiopia

Partnerships

The CMAM program is implemented in partnership with ministries of health, WHO, UNICEF, and local health facilities.