PREVENTION
Based on established scientific evidence and the known causes of preventable disabilities, Karuna Foundation Nepal estimated the potential impact of its disability prevention interventions. Over a four-year period, the Training of Professionals Project, together with 154 community-based prevention initiatives, contributed to an estimated 150 children being born free from preventable birth defects and avoidable disabilities.
These interventions focused on reducing risk factors during pregnancy, childbirth, and early childhood through strengthened maternal and newborn healthcare, capacity building of healthcare professionals, community awareness, and timely referral and follow-up services. The findings demonstrate the potential of evidence-based prevention strategies to reduce the incidence of avoidable disabilities and improve maternal and child health outcomes.
Results from Training of Professionals (2008-2011)
- 480 healthcare professionals from 154 communities across three districts were trained to strengthen maternal, newborn, and child health services.
- 154 community-based prevention initiatives were planned, implemented, and monitored in close collaboration with the respective District Health Offices.
- 11 birthing centres were established or strengthened, improving access to safe maternal and newborn healthcare services.
- Project implementation contributed to significant improvements in key maternal and child health indicators, including increased institutional deliveries, higher attendance at antenatal care (ANC) visits, and greater utilization of outreach health services.
- The project successfully promoted community ownership and local resource mobilization. Communities actively contributed financial and in-kind resources to sustain local health initiatives, with one community mobilizing the equivalent of EUR 6,000 in local contributions, complementing the initial EUR 200 seed funding provided by Karuna Foundation Nepal.
