Neuropsychological consequences of early childhood malnutrition in Zambia and sub-Saharan Africa

Introduction: Early childhood malnutrition remains a critical public health problem in low- and middle-income countries, with Sub-Saharan Africa bearing a disproportionate burden. In Zambia, persistent undernutrition and micronutrient deficiencies continue to affect a substantial proportion of children under five years, raising concerns about long-term neuropsychological development and human capital formation. This integrative review synthesises current data on the biological mechanisms and neuropsychological outcomes linked with early childhood malnutrition, with particular attention to Zambia and comparable African contexts.