The Causes of Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM): Unpacking a Complex Crisis
•
4 min read
Globally, severe acute malnutrition (SAM) accounts for approximately 1 to 2 million childhood deaths annually, disproportionately affecting children under five. This life-threatening condition is not caused by a single factor, but rather a complex interplay of immediate, underlying, and basic causes that weaken a child's health and ability to absorb nutrients.