Initializing Studies in Bolivia

Benson Institute employee, Raquel Tustón, conducted baseline research on the nutritional status of children in Bolivia. Results will be useful for further intervention.

 

 

Raquel Tustón, Right, gathers information as she talks with children in Candelaria, Bolivia.

Initial research pertaining to the frequency of malnutrition, the customs of a people, and the available resources within a specific community allows the Ezra Taft Benson Agriculture and Food Institute to plan meaningful projects that will help improve the quality of life within a community. In 1998, Raquel Tustón, a graduate from the Polytechnic University of Chimborazo (Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo) located in Riobamba, Ecuador, completed foundational research in Bolivia for the rural community of Candelaria.

Candelaria, population of 310, is located in the dry, southwest province of Cochabamba. Research revealed 56 percent of the infants are malnourished, with 51 percent being acutely malnourished. Main food sources are starches such as potatoes. Community members lack both the facilities and the means to grow fresh fruits and vegetables. Raising animals as a high protein food source for humans is also not economically feasible. These facts leave few quality sources of vitamins, minerals, and proteins.

Conclusions drawn from Tustón’s research provided the impetus for projects in BYU’s Animal Science Department, such as Dr. Richard O. Kellems’s work to analyze the health and food consumption of community animals. Tustón’s research also initialized mandatory health education in local school curriculums.

The Benson Institute continues to work in Candelaria to improve nutrition, animal science, and agronomy. A second diagnostic report will be done in the coming years to mark advancements and find additional needs.