Tag: South asia

Despite a cultural and culinary reliance on dairy products, research indicates that a significant portion of the Pakistani population is genetically predisposed to lactose malabsorption. So, are Pakistanis lactose tolerant? The answer is often no, creating a widespread and frequently misunderstood digestive challenge for many.

An estimated 17% of the global population is at risk of inadequate zinc intake, particularly prevalent in low- and middle-income countries. This essential mineral deficiency, or 'hidden hunger,' disproportionately affects vulnerable communities due to dietary habits, poor soil quality, and limited access to diverse, nutritious foods.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is a public health problem in more than half of all countries, with the highest prevalence in regions like Africa and South-East Asia. A significant portion of young children and pregnant women in low-income settings are particularly vulnerable to this widespread nutritional issue.

Studies in Pakistan have revealed a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, with some reports showing that up to 73% of the adult population suffers from it, despite abundant sunshine. This widespread issue, particularly affecting women and children, is driven by a complex interplay of cultural norms, dietary habits, and lifestyle factors.

According to the World Health Organization, vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is a significant public health problem in more than half of all countries, primarily in Africa and South-East Asia. This critical micronutrient deficiency affects millions, especially young children and pregnant women, and is linked to severe health issues, including blindness and increased mortality.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), roughly 673 million people went hungry in 2024, with low-income economies disproportionately affected. This global hunger crisis is directly linked to malnutrition, with a significant part of the problem stemming from protein deficiency. This report analyzes which country has more protein deficiency, examining the contributing factors and the regions most in need of nutritional support.

According to UNICEF, 6.6% of children under 5 suffered from wasting in 2024, highlighting the persistent global challenge of malnutrition. The crisis is not evenly distributed, with certain regions and countries bearing a disproportionately heavy burden of this public health emergency.

According to the World Bank, undernutrition affects hundreds of millions of people globally, with the burden falling heaviest on specific regions. This persistent issue, measured by indicators like stunting and wasting, continues to pose a significant obstacle to human development and well-being.

Approximately 60-70% of the Indian population has lactose intolerance, with some estimates for wider South Asia reaching up to 90%. Despite this high prevalence, dairy has long been a cornerstone of South Asian cuisine, creating a cultural and biological paradox that makes asking, "Are South Asians lactose intolerant?" a complex question with significant nuances.

According to the World Health Organization, over one-third of the tobacco consumed in South Asia is smokeless. This includes products like zarda, and the answer to 'Is zarda nicotine?' is an emphatic yes. Despite being an unburned product, this flavored chewing tobacco delivers high levels of the addictive substance, leading to serious health consequences.