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The technical discourse on nutrition surveillance started decades ago, and the first technical guidelines were proposed in mid-1970s. In spite of this long history, little evidence and consensus exists on the best methods for conducting nutrition surveillance, and on the validity of data produced by these approaches. Multiple nutrition surveillance systems exist in humanitarian settings; however, the validity and usefulness of data produced by these systems are often questionable. In this paper, we outline and define five major methodological approaches to collecting child anthropometric data through surveillance: repeated surveys, community-based sentinel sites, mass screenings, admission data from feeding centers, and data from health clinics. We discuss outstanding methodological and practical challenges with direct implications for quality, validity, and interpretability of collected data and highlight comparative advantages and disadvantages of different methods. We also propose ways forward to building a better evidence base by documenting the strengths and limitations of different approaches, with the eventual goal of achieving consensus on the best ways to collect anthropometric data through surveillance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information about several papers discussed at the informal consultation meeting of several international health organizations regarding the community-based management of child malnutrition. Since severe malnutrition is one of the cause of death in children, health organizations continue to develop health programs that would solve malnutrition problems. The meeting did not make any recommendations on preventing malnutrition.

A foreword to the supplement of the September 2006 issue of "Food and National Bulletin" is presented.