KABUL, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Afghanistan's Ministry of Public Health said nearly 3 million people suffering from malnutrition received treatment across the country over the past 11 months, according to a report by Tolo news on Monday.

The ministry said the patients, mainly children, breastfeeding mothers, and pregnant women, were treated during the last 11 months as part of nationwide efforts to address malnutrition, which remains one of the country's most pressing public health concerns, the report said.

International organizations have warned that the situation could become more serious in the coming years. Due to declining humanitarian assistance and ongoing economic difficulties, the number of malnourished women and children in Afghanistan could rise to nearly 5 million by 2026.

Malnutrition continues to affect many vulnerable families across Afghanistan, highlighting the need for sustained health services, nutritional support, and greater awareness about proper feeding and care. ■