To identify if someone (presumably a child) has Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM), you need to assess specific indicators outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO). The three primary ways to identify SAM are as follows:
- Very Low Weight-for-Height/Length: This involves calculating the Z-score, which compares a child's weight relative to their height/length against the WHO child growth standards. A Z-score below -3 SD (standard deviations) indicates SAM.
- Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC): Measuring the circumference of the mid-upper arm. A MUAC of less than 115 mm suggests SAM.
- Nutritional Oedema: The presence of swelling, particularly in the feet, ankles, and legs, that is caused by fluid retention due to malnutrition.
Here’s a table summarizing these indicators:
| Indicator | Criteria for SAM Identification |
|---|---|
| Weight-for-Height/Length Z-score | < -3 SD of WHO child growth standards |
| Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) | < 115 mm |
| Nutritional Oedema | Presence of oedema |
These criteria are used by healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat Severe Acute Malnutrition effectively.
