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Undernutrition among children in South and South-East Asia

Sant-Rayn Pasricha1, Beverley-Ann Biggs

  • 1Department of Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.

Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health
|September 22, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Childhood undernutrition is a significant public health issue in Asia, particularly in South Asia. Addressing its complex causes requires multifaceted strategies to combat malnutrition and its consequences.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Nutrition Science
  • Asian Studies

Background:

  • Childhood undernutrition is a critical public health challenge across Asia, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations.
  • The problem is widespread, impacting a majority of children in many Asian nations, with a notable concentration in South Asia.
  • Factors like poverty, rural settings, and Indigenous community status exacerbate the burden of undernutrition.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the extent of childhood undernutrition in Asia.
  • To identify and discuss the multifaceted contributing factors to undernutrition.
  • To explore and propose potential solutions and strategies for prevention and intervention.

Main Methods:

  • This is a review article, synthesizing existing research and data on childhood undernutrition in Asia.
  • The review examines the complex etiology, including socio-economic, political, and environmental factors.
  • It discusses the impact of global issues like climate change and financial crises on food security and malnutrition.

Main Results:

  • Undernutrition presents a major public health problem for children throughout Asia, especially in South Asia.
  • The causes are complex, involving political settings, climate change, land use, and financial crises, all contributing to food insecurity.
  • Existing strategies for prevention may be hindered by these multifaceted challenges.

Conclusions:

  • Urgent and comprehensive strategies are needed to address the pervasive consequences of childhood undernutrition in Asia.
  • Interventions must consider the complex interplay of factors, including political, environmental, and economic influences.
  • Mitigating climate change and ensuring food security are crucial for combating childhood malnutrition.

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