A team
of University of Karachi headed by Professor Dr. Syed Arif
Kamal has undertaken a pilot project to establish "National
Growth and Developmental Standards (NGDS)" for the Pakistani
children under the directives of Governor Sindh/Chancellor,
University of Karachi. Design of this project is undertaken
after extensive contacts with local and international experts.
Healthy
4-11 years old children, having no complains before birth
and during the weaning period, studying in schools run by
the Armed Forces are measured and screened for anemia, cardiac
problems and scoliosis (major causes for growth retardation).
The NGDS Team has detected stunting (short height for age)
as well as a number of cases involving scoliosis. Stunting,
if detected in preteen years, could be treated by a combination
of sleep habits, diet, exercise and, in extreme cases, by
hormone therapy. Scoliosis, if left untreated, produces cosmetic
deformities and effects vital organs (e. g., heart, lungs)
during adolescence. If detected early, it could be arrested
with a combination of braces and exercises. Most important
of all, delicate surgery involving spinal nerves may be avoided
in most cases.
More >>
|
