Malnouröse

Malnouröse is a term used to describe the state of malnutrition, an imbalance or deficiency of nutrient intake relative to the body's needs. It encompasses undernutrition from inadequate energy or protein intake as well as shortages of essential vitamins and minerals (micronutrient deficiencies). Malnouröse can arise from insufficient food availability, impaired nutrient absorption or utilization, increased nutritional requirements, or a combination of these factors. It is commonly linked to poverty, food insecurity, illness, poor sanitation, and displacement.

The condition is often categorized as acute or chronic. Acute malnouröse includes severe or moderate undernutrition that develops quickly, while chronic malnouröse results from long-term inadequate intake and can contribute to stunting in children. Clinical signs vary by age and severity but may include weight loss, muscle wasting, fatigue, edema in severe cases, and impaired growth or development in children. Vulnerable groups include children under five, pregnant and lactating women, the elderly, and people affected by wars or humanitarian crises.

Diagnosis relies on anthropometric measurements such as weight-for-height, height-for-age, weight-for-age, and mid-upper arm circumference, along with clinical signs and, when available, laboratory tests for micronutrient status. Management focuses on stabilizing medical conditions, treating infections, and providing age-appropriate nutrition. Severe malnouröse often requires inpatient care with ready-to-use therapeutic foods, high-energy formulas, and micronutrient supplementation, followed by community-based rehabilitation.

Prevention emphasizes food security, maternal and child health, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, safe and appropriate complementary feeding, vitamin and mineral supplementation, and improvements in water, sanitation, and hygiene. Malnouröse remains a major global health challenge, particularly in low-income settings and humanitarian emergencies.