According to the GHI [global hunger index] report (2019–2021), India’s child wasting rate, at 18.7%, was the highest among countries on the index; its child stunting rate, at 35.5%, was the 15th highest; the prevalence of undernourishment was 16.6%; and the under-five mortality rate was 3.1%.
Ever thought about why the food we eat is so important? Well, it all comes down to something called nutrition. Knowing how important it is helps us build a healthier life.
In India, under-five child malnutrition is a serious public health issue. With one-third of all malnourished children worldwide, India has one of the highest rates of child malnutrition in the world. India has performed worse than its neighbours with similar per capita GDPs and social and economic combinations when it comes to child malnutrition. We need an integrated strategy to tackle issues of poverty and food distribution, develop healthcare facilities, promote gender equality, boost access to nutrient-dense foods, and provide nutrition education to combat malnutrition in India.
What is malnutrition?
The World Health Organization defines malnutrition as excesses, deficiencies, or imbalances in an individual’s consumption of energy and/or nutrients. Undernutrition and overnutrition are the two categories of malnutrition. Four categories of undernutrition exist: underweight, stunting, wasting, and micronutrient deficiencies.
- Underweight: This refers to a low weight-for-age ratio, indicating that a child is too light for his or her age. It’s often used as a general indicator of malnutrition.
- Stunting: Stunting occurs when a child is too short for his or her age. It indicates chronic malnutrition and is often the result of long-term inadequate nutrition and repeated infections during the most critical periods of growth and development in early childhood.
- Wasting: Wasting, also known as acute malnutrition, is characterized by a low weight-for-height ratio. It indicates recent and severe weight loss, often resulting from a sudden and significant food shortage or illness.
- Micronutrient deficiencies: These occur when the body lacks essential vitamins and minerals necessary for proper growth, development, and overall health. Common micronutrient deficiencies include iron deficiency anemia, vitamin A deficiency, iodine deficiency disorders, and zinc deficiency, among others.
Some facts about malnutrition in India.
- According to a UNICEF report, 38% of Indian children under the age of 5 have stunted growth.
- A report released by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) stated that mortality in India was primarily caused by malnutrition in under-five-year-old children.
- India has the 17th-highest global rate of stunted children, according to the UNICEF report. The Indian states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh account for the majority of underweight newborns.
- According to the WHO report, India is the nation with the tenth-highest percentage of underweight children.
Causes of Malnutrition in India
- Poverty: Many Indians are unable to obtain wholesome meals due to financial limitations. The WHO, FAO, IFAD, UNICEF, WFP, and 74.1% of Indians, compared to 42.1% globally, cannot afford healthful meals.
- Food Distribution: India is a big food producer, but its distribution of food is unequal, resulting in different levels of food security in different parts of the country.
- Population Density: In certain places, high population density puts a strain on healthcare, food, and water resources, making it difficult to meet nutritional needs.
- Healthcare: Infections go untreated in rural areas due to a lack of access to healthcare, which worsens malnutrition. Newborns are impacted by maternal malnutrition, which feeds the cycle.
- Sanitation and Water: Inadequate access to clean water and sanitation can worsen malnutrition by causing waterborne illnesses that hinder nutrient absorption.
Consequences of Severe Acute Malnutrition in India
- Increased mortality: SAM significantly increases the risk of mortality, especially among children under five years old. Malnourished children are more vulnerable to infectious diseases and have weaker immune systems, leading to higher mortality rates.
- Impaired Physical and Cognitive Development: SAM during early childhood can lead to stunted growth, both physically and cognitively. This can have long-term implications for overall health, cognitive development, and productivity later in life.
- Increased susceptibility to infections: Malnourished individuals have weakened immune systems. They are more susceptible to infections such as pneumonia, diarrhea, and other common illnesses. These infections can further exacerbate malnutrition and lead to a vicious cycle of illness and malnutrition.
- Economic burden: Malnutrition imposes a significant economic burden on individuals, families, and society as a whole. The costs associated with healthcare, lost productivity, and decreased earning potential can be significant, reinforcing the cycle of poverty and malnutrition.
- Reduced Immunity: People who are malnourished are more vulnerable to respiratory infections, HIV/AIDS, TB, and other diseases because their immune systems are weakened.
Who is at risk?
Malnutrition, in its various forms, affects every nation on the planet. One of the biggest issues facing global health is the fight against malnutrition in all its manifestations.
Babies, toddlers, women, and adolescents are more susceptible to malnutrition. Enhancing nutrition at a young age has long-term benefits and ensures the best start in life. This covers the period of 1000 days from a child’s conception until their second birth.
Malnutrition and its associated hazards are increasing poverty. Different types of malnutrition are more likely to impact those who are impoverished. Malnutrition can also prolong a cycle of poverty and illness by lowering productivity, raising health care expenses, and slowing economic growth.
How to Overcome Malnutrition
- Diet Rich in Nutrients: Encourage eating a variety of foods high in nutrients, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and healthy fats.
- Supplementation: Provide essential vitamins and minerals through supplements, especially in populations where access to nutritious food is limited.
- Nutrient enrichment: Enhances staple foods by adding crucial nutrients like iron, folic acid, and vitamin A. Aiming to boost overall nutritional intake, particularly in communities heavily dependent on certain food sources.
- Access to Clean Water and Sanitation: Ensure access to clean water and sanitation facilities to prevent waterborne diseases that can exacerbate malnutrition.
- Agricultural Development: Support small-scale farmers and agricultural initiatives to improve food production, diversity, and accessibility in local communities.
- Education and Behavior Change: conduct nutrition education initiatives to raise public understanding of the value of balanced meals, good eating practices, and food preparation methods.
Conclusion
Addressing malnutrition in India is not just a matter of improving individual health; it is essential for the country’s social and economic development. The alarming rates of child wasting, stunting, and undernourishment highlighted by the Global Hunger Index and UNICEF reports underscore the urgency of this issue.
To tackle malnutrition effectively, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. This includes improving food distribution systems, enhancing healthcare access, and promoting nutritional education. Efforts must also focus on poverty alleviation and ensuring clean water and sanitation to prevent diseases that exacerbate malnutrition. Nutritional supplementation and agricultural development can further support these initiatives by providing the necessary nutrients and improving food security.
Crucially, early intervention is key. By ensuring that children, especially during the first 1,000 days from conception to their second birthday, receive adequate nutrition. We can lay the foundation for healthier growth and development. This not only benefits the individual but also contributes to a healthier, more productive society.
In conclusion, combating malnutrition requires a collective effort from government agencies, non-profits, healthcare providers, and communities. By working together, we can overcome the challenges of malnutrition and pave the way for a healthier future for all Indians. Let’s commit to making nutrition a priority and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow, thrive, and reach their full potential.