Impact of social programs on food and nutritional security: Puno case, 2023-2025

Abstract

The aim was to analyze the relationship between social programs and food and nutritional security in Puno during the 2023–2025 period. Data on the nutritional status of children and mothers, program coverage, and budget allocations for national social programs were reviewed. The findings showed that the prevalence of anemia among children aged 6 to 35 months affected approximately 70% of the population between 2021 and 2024, evidencing an increasing trend. Meanwhile, the Wasi Mikuna Program served fewer beneficiaries, whereas the budget allocated to the Ambulatory Food and Nutrition Program for Patients with Tuberculosis (PANTBC) showed an upward trend in service provision and was directly associated with the increase in tuberculosis cases. The National Cuna Más Program Services, despite receiving a larger budget, concentrated their interventions in urban areas and reduced their coverage in rural areas. Although national programs such as Haku Wiñay and Wasi Mikuna constitute significant efforts, they remain insufficient to comprehensively address food insecurity. Food and nutritional security in Puno, despite progress achieved in reducing chronic malnutrition, continues to be a pending challenge. Persistent structural gaps represent a major concern for authorities, institutions, and society as a whole, requiring coordinated and articulated efforts to ensure sustainable improvements in public health.