Epidemiology of Malnutrition:Maternal and Child Malnutrition

Malnutrition, though uncommon in developed countries, continues to be a major health burden in developing countries. Malnutrition, consisting of protein-energy malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies, is globally the most important risk factor for morbidity and mortality. Particularly, hundreds of millions of pregnant women and young children are affected by malnutrition. Forty five percent of all deaths in children fewer than 5 years of age are attributed to under nutrition. In 2012, it was estimated that 26% of the world's children were stunted and about 3% were severely wasted. In the past decade, discourse about the challenge of malnutrition has increased substantially at both national and international levels. Definition, prevalence, causes and challenges associated with reducing malnutrition (undernutrition) in children, pregnant women and the elderly will be covered briefly in this review. Emphasis of this review is on prevalence and prevention of malnutrition in pregnant women and children.