Nutrition technician Nada checks Hana’s weight as part of her malnutrition assessment.
The severe impact of malnutrition on children in Idlib, Syria, is a significant public health issue. Many young children, like one-year-old Hana, arrive at nutrition clinics with severe acute malnutrition (SAM). These clinics, supported by organisations like Relief International, treat children who are dangerously underweight and weak.
The effects of malnutrition are stark and immediately visible. Children suffering from severe acute malnutrition exhibit a range of severe symptoms, including extreme frailty, paleness, and a lack of energy. This condition not only threatens their lives but also severely impairs their physical and cognitive development. Instead of playing and engaging with their surroundings, malnourished children often become lethargic and withdrawn, unable to speak, smile, or interact. The high prevalence of such cases highlights the urgent need for continued nutritional support and healthcare to combat this crisis.
Hana was diagnosed with severe acute malnutrition and anemia.
“When we measured Hana’s arm circumference, weight, and height, the data confirmed what we feared,” said Nada, the clinic’s nutrition technician.
"She was in critical condition, but thankfully, there were no underlying illnesses. She just needed urgent nutrition support."
Hana’s healing journey
Sitting on her mother’s lap, Hana eats a therapeutic food supplement. The treatment is part of her recovery from severe acute malnutrition.
Upon confirming her diagnosis, Hana was immediately placed on a treatment plan including Plumpy’Nut, a life-saving therapeutic food, along with essential vitamins and medications. Her appetite test showed she could tolerate the treatment, and her mother left the clinic with hope—and enough supplies for the coming days.
After just one week, Hana returned. The change was subtle but undeniable.
“Her skin had more color, she was awake and alert, even talking. The difference was incredible,” said the nutritionist Nada. “She went from being almost lifeless to showing signs of real recovery.”
Life-saving healthcare for communities cut off from services
Due to the long distance between the clinic and Hana’s home, she was given a two-week supply of therapeutic food. The follow-ups continued, and with each visit, her energy and appetite improved.
"She was eating one and a half sachets a day — not every child can do that. Her body wanted to heal, and she responded quickly when given the chance," said Nada.
This clinic — one of the few in the region — serves 30 to 35 children a month, along with pregnant and breastfeeding women.
“These services are the only option for most families in the area. A simple vitamin supplement in the pharmacy could cost $10 — that’s impossible for them to spend. We’re not just treating children with ailments — we’re protecting the future,” Nada added.
Hana stands still as nutrition technician Nada measures her height to assess her level of malnutrition.
Hana’s recovery is one of many, but it’s a reminder of what’s at stake. Without this support, children and their families stand to be the most gravely affected.
“When we run out of supplies or lose staff due to lack of funding, parents who travel for hours looking for a ray of hope for their children have to go home devastated. Maintaining support for this clinic is not just important — it’s crucial,” Nada emphasized.
Today, Hana is no longer just surviving — she’s thriving. She smiles, talks, and plays like any child her age should.
Relief International has been able to support people like Hana because of the support of the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO). EU ECHO currently supports 15 health facilities and 10 protection spaces operated by Relief International across Syria. Thanks to ECHO’s support last year, Relief International was able to deliver healthcare to over 400,000 people and provide essential protection services to nearly 10,000.
