The Vicious Cycle of Malnutrition and Childhood Infections – What are the policy implications?

Abstract

Malnutrition refers to a deficiency or imbalance in the intake of energy and nutrients and is an underpinning factor for child mortality in developing countries. Undernutrition predisposes children to repeated infections, increases the severity and delays recovery from illness. In addition, repeated infections deplete patients of valuable micronutrients required for functioning of acquired and innate immunity. The integrity of natural protective mechanisms such as naso-oesophageal linings, gastrointestinal and genito-urinary tracts may also be affected. These children frequently have bacterial overgrowth in their small bowel as well as insidious infections. Undernutrition therefore creates a potentially lethal cycle of prolonged illness and deteriorating nutritional status which predisposes to further infection. The policy implication of this negative synergism is that suspected infections in malnourished children should be promptly and effectively treated with antibiotics. This strategy will disrupt the vicious cycle and contribute towards reduction of mortality in children. Keywords: Malnutrition, infections, children