Impact of aflatoxin exposure to children during the first 1000 days of life
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Date
2018-04
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East African Community
Abstract
The most vulnerable group of population is exposed to Aflatoxins within 1000 days of life from conception to the child’s second birthday. This population group is highly affected because their body systems have not fully developed to allow for detoxification1. Exposure to aflatoxin during the first 1000 days of a Child leads to wasting, stunting and underweight.
Consumption of safe and quality food is essential for all, but it is of significant importance in children. Aflatoxin contamination of children food must therefore be prevented.
Aflatoxin metabolites have been detected in samples of blood and urine of new-borns and pregnant women respectively in Kenya, Uganda, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Gambia and Ghana. Children between zero and two years continue to be exposed to aflatoxin through breast milk and complimentary food in EAC region.
Description
EAC Policy Brief on Aflatoxin Prevention and Control
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Citation
East African Community. (2018). Impact of aflatoxin exposure to children during the first 1000 days of life. Policy Brief No. 2, 2018, East African Community