Tag: Causes of marasmus

According to the World Health Organization, malnutrition contributes to nearly half of all deaths in children under five globally. The marasmus definition is a key part of understanding this crisis, referring to a severe form of undernutrition resulting from an overall deficiency of energy and calories.

While most commonly associated with children, studies show malnutrition, including marasmus, affects a significant portion of hospitalized and elderly adults in developed countries. Yes, adults can have marasmus, and it represents a severe deficiency of calories and protein.

According to UNICEF, undernutrition is linked to nearly half of all deaths in children under five years of age, with a significant portion resulting from conditions like marasmus. This article will explain the four key causes of marasmus and detail how they contribute to this life-threatening form of malnutrition.

According to the World Health Organization, severe acute malnutrition, which includes marasmus, affects millions of children under five years old globally. The main cause of marasmus is a severe and sustained deficiency in both protein and calories in a person's diet. This energy deficit forces the body to consume its own tissues for survival, leading to extreme wasting and emaciation.

According to UNICEF, nearly half of all deaths in children under five are linked to malnutrition, with marasmus being a devastating consequence. So, how does one get marasmus? It arises from a severe, long-term deficiency of all macronutrients—protein, carbohydrates, and fats—leaving the body to consume its own tissues for survival.