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. 2022 Sep 22:82:104769.
doi: 10.1016/j.amsu.2022.104769. eCollection 2022 Oct.

Malnutrition: An underlying health condition faced in sub Saharan Africa: Challenges and recommendations

Adedoyin John-Joy Owolade  1 , Ridwanullah Olamide Abdullateef  2 , Ridwan Olamilekan Adesola  3 , Esanju Daniel Olaloye  2
Affiliations

Malnutrition: An underlying health condition faced in sub Saharan Africa: Challenges and recommendations

Adedoyin John-Joy Owolade et al. Ann Med Surg (Lond). .

Abstract

In Sub-Saharan Africa, the morbidity and mortality rate from malnutrition is increasing more than in any place in the world. Malnutrition has been a public health challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa that has not received enough attention. This commentary discussed the causes, effects and the need to prioritize the prevention and control of Malnutrition in Africa, together with practical recommendations. Several factors contribute to the high prevalence of malnutrition in sub-Saharan Africa. Some are poverty, overpopulation, unsuccessful small-scale agriculture, low educational status, climate change, corruption, wars and conflicts, fluctuation of food prices, etc. Conversely, the effects of malnutrition on individuals have resulted in the development of illnesses and chronic health issues. Hence, there is a need to reach out to malnourished individuals, encourage the government, investors, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to take action, educate health staff to detect and react to early indicators of malnutrition, enhance agricultural product output, manage and preserve the environment, and use technology to its full potential. All of these suggestions will significantly impact the incidence of malnutrition in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Keywords: Health; Malnutrition; Sub saharan Africa.

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Conflict of interest statement

Authors declare no conflict of interest.

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