In DPR Korea, malnutrition threatens the survival and growth of children during their most crucial period of development. According to the most recent nutrition assessment carried out by the government, UNICEF and WFP in 2002, the prevalence of wasting and stunting in children under 7 years of age is 9% and 42%, respectively. The main causes of child mortality are diarrhea and respiratory infections combined with malnutrition. According to UNICEF, “these very high levels of malnutrition indicate that there are serious problems for both the physical growth and psycho-social development of young children. These have far-reaching consequences affecting the whole of their lives. Recent international research has shown that retarded growth and development in the first five years cannot be later regained or compensated for.”
This is why Firststeps started Sprinkles program in NK with Soy milk program.