Educational Practices in Nutrition in Primary Care: Considerations from an Experiemtn in Popular Extension in Joao Pessoa, Paraiba

Abstract

The article offers considerations of the process of building an experiment in extension activities for the disadvantaged by the Federal University of Paraiba (Brazil). It highlights its limitation and possibilities in the sense of contributing to the training of health professionals, especially nutritionists, given the current socio-politicalpublic health needs imposed by Brazilian reality. The project “ Integrated practices in nutrition within primary care (PINAB)” carried out in the Cristo neighborhood of Joao Pessoa, Paraiba, was developed according to the theoretical framework of Popular Education* with activities involving programs and reflection on nutrition in the area of public health and Food and Nutrition Security. There were five active groups, each one undertaking the organization and provision of group activities: for pregnant women, the elderly, school children, families enrolled in the government’s Family Scholarship Program, and community mobilization. In addition it provided home visits, individual dietetic counseling and the management of the overall program. This experience helped extension workers to understand work in the health area as an act of pedagogic ethic, of social engagement and collective citizenship building. The development of these activities also permitted a humanized intervention in nutrition in the daily life of the communities such as in the Public School Augusto dos Anjos and the Family Health Unit of Vila Saude. The trainees have been developing new paths for the activities of nutritionists committed to the promotion of health in the community.