23 November 2025, Aleppo, Syrian Arab Republic – At Al-Bab Health Centre in eastern Aleppo, routine growth monitoring offers families reassurance that their children are developing well. For Mona Talrafadi, who visited the centre with her mother, the checkup confirmed she was healthy and thriving.
Community health worker Dumoo’ checks Mona Talrafadi’s height as part of regular growth monitoring at Al-Bab Health Centre in eastern Aleppo. Photo credit: WHO
Inside the community health section, community health worker Dumoo’ welcomed Mona and her mother with a gentle smile. She measured Mona’s height, weight and mid-upper arm circumference — simple but essential assessments that help detect early signs of malnutrition. All of Mona’s measurements were within normal ranges.
“We focus on catching any issues early,” says Dumoo’. “A few minutes of checking can prevent months of worry for a family. These visits help us understand how children are growing and whether they need extra support.”
After documenting the results, Dumoo’ sat with Mona’s mother to discuss healthy feeding practices, hydration, and the importance of regular follow-up appointments. “A lot of mothers tell us they feel overwhelmed,” she explains. “So we always try to give advice that is simple, practical, and fits their daily lives.”
For Dumoo’, the connection with parents matters as much as the measurements. “When a mother leaves here feeling more confident, that is success for us,” she says. “They trust us, and we want them to know we are always here to listen.”
A close view of a mid-upper arm circumference measurement taken during Mona’s health assessment. Photo credit: WHO
Mona’s mother agreed. “They explained everything clearly,” she says. “These visits help me feel confident about how to care for her.”
The services at Al-Bab Health Centre are delivered in coordination with the Ministry of Health and implemented on the ground through Alameen Organization, whose teams ensure essential health care remains available to communities with limited options.
Dumoo’ measures Mona Talrafadi’s mid-upper arm circumference during a routine growth-monitoring. Photo credit: WHO
Since late 2024, continued support from the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) has helped WHO keep 50 health facilities operational across northwest Syria, including Al-Bab. This contribution has ensured uninterrupted access to primary, secondary, and specialized services – from essential medicines and supplies to dialysis care, which remains a growing need in the region.
