Which of the following factors could cause secondary malnutrition?
                                
                                
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                                    5 min read                                
                            
                                According to a 2023 study published in *ScienceDirect*, disease-related malnutrition in hospitalized children can account for over 5% of total hospital costs. This condition, known as secondary malnutrition, is not primarily a result of inadequate food supply but is caused by underlying health problems that interfere with nutrient intake, absorption, or utilization.