Background Adolescence can be difficult to navigate and the post-conflict environment in Jaffna Province, Sri Lanka compounds existing issues for adolescents. Conduct problems, hyperactivity along with emotional problems are challenges faced by adolescents, particularly in fragile, post-conflict settings. This study was a non-randomized controlled trial carried out in 4 educational zones over 6 months. The study implemented a yoga-based intervention package: two types of slow breathing for 5-6 min, Surya-namaskaram for 6-8 min, and mindfulness meditation for 5-6 min. Pre/post quantitative assessments were conducted with intervention and control groups. A focus group was conducted with the intervention group. The aim was to evaluate. Effectiveness of implementing a yoga-based intervention package in grade 8 school children (early adolescents) to address behavioural problems. Results Paired t-test and independent t-tests were completed for both arms using statistical product and service solutions (SPSS21). Parents’ assessments of emotional issues reduced for the intervention group (n = 584) [t(584) = 11.41, p = 0.001] along with reduction of the total difficulty score [t(584) = 28.12, p = 0.001]. Teachers’ assessments indicated prosocial scores improved in the intervention group [t(584) = − 28.5, p = 0.001]. Students’ self-assessments in the intervention group indicate a reduction in emotional problems [t(584) = 6.4, p = 0.001], and reduction in problems with peers [t(584) = 14.4, p = 0.001]. Within the control group (n = 499), teachers’ assessments indicated emotional problems increased [t(499) = − 9.5, p = 0.001] and prosocial scores reduced [t(499) = 13.5, p = 0.001]. Students’ self-assessments in the control group indicated emotional problems increased [t(499) = − 27.1, p = 0.001]. A comparison of post-test scores revealed a statistically significant difference between groups. Focus group results indicate students felt the intervention had an overall positive effect on school achievements, family dynamics and individual health. Conclusions This yoga-based intervention package appeared to be effective in reducing both externalizing and internalizing symptoms in adolescents. Practicing Surya-namaskaram, breathing control techniques and mindfulness meditation significantly reduced both externalizing symptoms (conduct problems and hyperactivity) as well as internalizing symptom (emotional problem and peer problems). It is recommended this intervention be scaled up across Sri Lanka and other similar post-conflict regions.

The effectiveness of a homemade supplementary food in improving weight gain of children between 02 to 05 years age with moderate acute malnutrition in Kopay Western Province

IntroductionReducing wasting in children under 5 years is a challenge in Sri Lanka. Management strategy of moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) is to have target food supplementation as energy dense snacks. Objectives To assess the feasibility, acceptability and effectiveness, of a homemade supplementary food (HMSF) in the management of moderate acute malnutrition in 2-5 year old children. Methods A community based quasi experimental study was carried out from October to December 2014. The test population (n=275) were 2-5 year old children with MAM from Kopay MOH area. The control group (n=285) were children of similar age with MAM from Uduvil, Nallur area. HMSF consisted of a pre-packed cereal mixture (50g), with sugar (20g) and scraped coconut (20g) added at home (calorie content =500 kcal/90g), as a daily snack to the intervention group. Baseline weight and monthly weight gain was measured using standard calibrated weighing scales. Compliance and any acute illnesses were monitored weekly by calling or visiting households. Average weight gain of both groups was analysed using independent sample t-test. The acceptability and feasibility of the HMSF was assessed by focus group discussions with the PHMs and the mothers. Results:Mean age of test group and control group was 42.6 months and 43.1 months respectively. There was no difference in the baseline weight of the two groups (95%CI -0.059-0.416: p=0.14). The mean weight gain in the test group and control group after 3 months was 688.5g (SD=437gm) and 583g (SD=461gm) respectively (p=0.006). The mean gain in length in the test group and control group after 3 months was 1.5cm (SD=0.93cm) and 1.66cm (SD 1.3 cm) (p=0.234) respectively. Conclusions and Recommendations:This HMSF was effective, feasible and acceptable in improving weight in MAM children under the age of five years.