Subclinical Kwashiorkor in Adults: A New Age Paradigm

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Internal Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Childhood protein-energy undernutrition (PEU) is widely studied and managed.
• Adult PEU, including subtle subclinical forms, remains largely unrecognized in clinical practice and public perception.
• Existing literature on adult PEU is not consolidated, hindering recognition and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review of the literature on adult subclinical PEU.
• To provide insights into the recognition, pathogenesis, and management of adult subclinical PEU.
• To highlight the significance of adult PEU as an under-recognized health challenge.

Main Methods:

• Scoping review of existing scientific literature.
• Analysis of reports on protein consumption in adults from developing countries.
• Synthesis of information on PEU recognition, pathogenesis, and management in adults.

Main Results:

• Adult subclinical PEU is a significant, under-recognized problem with potentially detrimental health consequences.
• PEU in adults carries substantial health and economic burdens for patients and society.
• Lack of physician and public awareness contributes to the under-recognition of adult PEU.

Conclusions:

• Recognizing and managing subclinical PEU in adults is essential to prevent progression to severe forms.
• Addressing adult PEU is critical for improving patient outcomes and reducing societal health and economic impacts.
• Further efforts are needed to raise awareness and improve diagnostic and management strategies for adult PEU.