Child health in India faces several challenges despite improvements in recent years. Key issues include:
- Malnutrition: A significant portion of Indian children suffers from malnutrition, leading to stunted growth, underweight, and micronutrient deficiencies.
- Infant Mortality: Although infant mortality rates have decreased, India still has one of the highest rates in the world. Causes include premature births, infections, and complications during childbirth.
- Immunization: While immunization rates have increased, some regions face gaps in vaccine coverage, leading to preventable diseases like polio, measles, and pneumonia.
- Access to Healthcare: In rural areas, access to quality healthcare services is limited, with fewer doctors and medical facilities.
- Air Pollution: Rising air pollution affects children’s respiratory health, leading to increased cases of asthma and other respiratory issues.
- Health Awareness: Many communities lack awareness about nutrition, hygiene, and preventive healthcare practices, impacting children’s overall well-being.
The government and NGOs have been working to improve healthcare infrastructure, maternal and child health programs, and nutrition initiatives to address these issues.
