Key Differences between SAM & MAM: Their Respective Treatments

Malnutrition is no longer a third-world problem but a global crisis that needs immediate attention. Malnutrition is defined as the insufficient nutrition required for the proper functioning of the body. Out of the many ill effects of malnutrition, stunted growth, a poor immune system, and severe health concerns are the most alarming. The World Health Organization (WHO) claims that globally, over 149 million children under five are stunted having low height for their age. 50 million children under the age of five are said to be wasted — having extremely low weight for height.

The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 2 aims to end all forms of malnutrition by 2030, highlighting the need for global action to address this pressing public health concern.

KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN SAM & MAM

Moderate Acute Malnutrition

Severe Acute Malnutrition

Definition

MAM is defined as a moderate degree of malnutrition, with a weight-for-height between -2 and -3 z-scores of the median WHO growth standards.

SAM is defined as having an extremely low weight for height (below -3 z-scores of the median WHO growth standards)

Risks and Complications

MAM is less severe and has a lower risk of complications.

SAM is usually associated with higher risks of severe medical complications, such as infection, organ failure, and death.

Treatment

MAM can often be managed with simpler interventions, such as supplemental feeding, nutrient-rich foods, and education on optimal infant and young child feeding practices.

The treatment of SAM and MAM differs significantly. SAM requires specialized medical care, such as inpatient or outpatient therapeutic feeding, antibiotics, and other supportive care.

Duration of Treatment

MAM may require only short-term treatment.

The duration of treatment for SAM is typically longer than for MAM. SAM requires a more intensive and longer-term treatment plan

Treatment Plans

MAM can be treated with RUSF pastes like Nutrifeedo Lite. Its complex blend is designed to provide high protein and high energy with a heavy dose of micronutrients. Its nutritional profile, however, caters to children who are Moderately Acute Malnourished.

SAM can be treated with fortified peanut butter like Nutrifeedo. It is a peanut-based paste, which through high lipid and protein content, provides high energy in a very compact form. It is also heavily fortified with all the micronutrients Severely Acute Malnourished child may require.

World organizations are continually spreading awareness of malnutrition, its types, and the various treatment plans to combat the severe implications of malnutrition in children. They also continually work with RUTF and RUSF manufacturers to bring malnutrition-combatting solutions like RUSF and RUTF supplements that transform the lives of children affected by severe acute malnutrition and moderate acute malnutrition.

RUTF and RUSF supplements are beacons of hope in the fight against malnutrition in children and continue to be the safest, fastest, and most cost-effective treatment for both severe acute malnutrition and moderate acute malnutrition. Read more about high-quality malnutrition-combatting supplements here.