How many people are affected by marasmus?
According to the WHO, on a global basis,marasmus affects more than 50 million young children (<5 years of age) (Figs 51.3 & 51.4). However, it can occur in individuals of all ages as marasmus results from a prolonged inadequate intake of calories and energy.
What age is marasmus most common?
Marasmus is more frequent in children younger than 5 years because this period is characterized by increased energy needs and increased susceptibility to viral and bacterial infections.
Where is marasmus most common in the world?
Marasmus is one of the most serious forms of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) in the world. Marasmus is a serious problem and is most common in children in developing regions, such as Africa, Latin America, and South Asia, where poverty, along with inadequate food supplies and contaminated water, are prevalent.
Why is marasmus common in children?
Nutrient deficiency is the main cause of marasmus. It occurs in children that don't ingest enough protein, calories, carbohydrates, and other important nutrients. This is usually due to poverty and a scarcity of food. There are several types of malnutrition.
Can a child recover from marasmus?
A full recovery can still take months, even with the right treatment plan. An individual may also need treatment for the complications, such as infections and dehydration. If marasmus results from an eating disorder, a person is also likely to need mental health treatment and support.
Why do people get marasmus?
It results from an overall lack of calories. Marasmus is a deficiency of all macronutrients: carbohydrates, fats, and protein. If you have marasmus, you lack the fuel necessary to maintain normal body functions. People with marasmus are visibly depleted, severely underweight and emaciated.
How can one prevent marasmus?
Prevention and Safety Measures for MarasmusDrinking boiled water.Eating washed and cooked food.Intake of more water to stay hydrated.Maintain good sanitation and hygiene.Having a healthy and well-balanced diet.More items...
Is marasmus worse than kwashiorkor?
Protein wasting in kwashiorkor generally leads to edema and ascites, while muscular wasting and loss of subcutaneous fat are the main clinical signs of marasmus. The prognosis is better than it is for kwashiorkor but half of severely malnourished children die due to unavailability of adequate treatment.
What age group is most affected by malnutrition?
Women, infants, children and adolescents are at the highest risk of malnutrition. Optimizing nutrition early in life – including the 1000 days from conception to a child's second birthday – ensures the best possible start in life, with long-term benefits.
Why is marasmus common in children below 4 years?
Causes of Marasmus Mother's milk is rich in nutrients that help children grow. If mothers are malnourished, they are unable to feed their infants enough milk during breastfeeding. This can increase the chances of protein-energy malnutrition in children.
What age group is mainly affected by kwashiorkor?
Kwashiorkor is a disease marked by severe protein malnutrition and bilateral extremity swelling. It usually affects infants and children, most often around the age of weaning through age 5. The disease is seen in very severe cases of starvation and poverty-stricken regions worldwide.
What age group is susceptible to PEM?
The National Family Health Survey (NHFS) shows that PEM is most commonly seen in preschool children between the age of 6 months to 2 years, and around 50- 60% of children are malnourished by the age of 22.