How do you prevent kwashiorkor

Treating kwashiorkor in its late stages will improve the child's general health. However, the child may be left with permanent physical and mental problems. If treatment is not given or comes too late, this condition is life threatening. Ashworth A. Nutrition, food security, and health. In: Kliegman RM, St. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; chap Manary MJ, Trehan I. Protein-energy malnutrition.

Goldman-Cecil Medicine. Updated by: Neil K. Editorial team. Kwashiorkor is most common in areas where there is: Famine Limited food supply Low levels of education when people do not understand how to eat a proper diet This disease is more common in very poor countries. It may occur during a: Drought or other natural disaster, or Political unrest. Kwashiorkor is a form of malnutrition due to protein deficiency.

A characteristic feature is generalized edema. To prevent kwashiorkor a nutritious diet is essential. Kwashiorkor is a severe form of malnutrition caused by the lack of proteins in the diet. Kwashiorkor is a type of protein energy malnutrition PEM which is widespread in infants and children throughout the developing world.

Marasmus is another form of protein energy malnutrition where there is deficient intake of both calories and proteins due to starvation whereas kwashiorkor is due to severe lack of protein in the diet with adequate energy intake. Kwashiorkor usually affects infants and children, most often around the age of weaning up to five years of age.

Kwashiorkor is also known as "edematous malnutrition" as it always includes edema, especially of ankles, feet, face and belly. Kwashiorkor is also known as protein calorie malnutrition, protein energy malnutrition and malignant malnutrition. Pregnant and lactating women should be given sufficient amount of nutritious food and; Women should be encouraged to breast feed their infants. Follow Medindia. By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy , Privacy Policy , and our Terms of Use.

Kwashiorkor Protein Malnutrition Kwashiorkor is a form of malnutrition due to protein deficiency. Ask your question. Written by Dr.

Sunita Chowdhary , L. Search Menu. Article Navigation. Close mobile search navigation Article Navigation. Volume Treatment and Prevention of Kwashiorkor. Select Format Select format. Permissions Icon Permissions. Article PDF first page preview.

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