Login

INTRODUCTION Primary malnutrition is seen in the dependent, who rely on others for nourishment; infants, children, elderly, prisoners; disabled and mentally ill are most vulnerable. Secondary malnutrition accompanies any disease which disturbs appetite, digestion, absorption or utilization of nutrients. Malnutrition and infection pose a serious threat to the health of the population, especially young children in developing countries. Among several nutritional disorders of public health importance, PEM is one of the most widespread. The highest prevalence is among children under 5 years. PEM is not a single disease entity, but covers a wide spectrum of deficiency states ranging f rom severe cases of kwashiorkor and marasmus to milder forms, which manifests as varying degrees of growth retardation.