title: Information-sharing to improve learning about community-based management of acute malnutrition (CMAM) and its impact.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) affects 19 million children worldwide annually. The community-based management of acute malnutrition (CMAM) approach was first piloted in 2000. Endorsed by the United Nations in 2007, the approach has been introduced in over 60 countries. Current coverage and quality of services need further strengthening and key stakeholders have expressed the need for improved information-sharing.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To report on an information-sharing initiative that was established to support scale-up of quality services for CMAM by collecting existing technical guidance, evidence, and learning.
  
  
  METHODS
  Routine website monitoring, country case studies, and surveys were used to assess the profiles of CMAM Forum users and the reach and use of information for improved health outcomes.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The number of information products and services and their use have steadily increased. Country case studies have identified ways to adapt information better to the needs of those involved in managing acute malnutrition, particularly at the country level. An urgent need has been identified for more resources in additional languages, especially French and Arabic, and expanded production and use of audiovisual material and social media.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Improved information-sharing can have an impact on health outcomes, but further innovation and support are needed to improve access to, and use of, the information.
authors: Nicky
authors: N
authors: Dent
authors: Hedwig
authors: H
authors: Deconinck
authors: Kate
authors: K
authors: Golden
authors: Rebecca
authors: R
authors: Brown
authors: Anne
authors: A
authors: Walsh
mesh_terms: D000208:Acute Disease; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003153:Community Health Services; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D033181:Information Dissemination; D007390:International Agencies; D007391:International Cooperation; D020407:Internet; D044342:Malnutrition / Q000628:therapy*; D018673:Nutrition Policy; D016896:Treatment Outcome