Adapting acute malnutrition treatment protocols in emergency contexts: a qualitative study of national decision-making

Each year, an estimated 17 million children suffer from severe acute malnutrition (SAM) and 33 million from moderate acute malnutrition (MAM), with many of the most severe cases found in extremely food insecure contexts or conflict situations.

This study found that there is widespread confusion about protocol terminology and content for SAM and MAM, stemming from a lack of coherence at the global level.

Based on these findings, global-level stakeholders should urgently improve coordination and communication around existing protocols for SAM and MAM, particularly in emergency contexts and in situations of limited resources.