Abstract

PIP: This paper reviews malnutrition problems in South America in terms of population growth, food production, health, nutrition, and food supply. The estimated population of South America in 1976 was 224 million. Population growth from 1965-76 varied by country and ranged from the highest increase in Ecuador (43.6%), Colombia (42.9%), and Brazil (36.8%) to the lowest in Chile (22.7%), Argentina (16%), and Uruguay (12%). The annual population growth rate for the continent is one of the highest in the world. More than 40% of South America's population is 14 years or younger. Food production has not kept pace with population growth in several countries. Brazil and Venezuela are the 2 South American countries with the largest food production. Per capita food production has decreased in Chile and Ecuador. Infant mortality, which is linked to factors such as water supply, sewage disposal, and income, has decreased during the 1960s and 1970s. 1.5-6.4% of all causes of death for all ages in South American countries have been due to malnutrition. Studies of the nutritional status of children less than 5 years of age indicate that malnutrition has decreased in Brazil from 68.3% between 1960-70 to 46% between 1970-80. Other countries (Colombia and Venezuela) show slight decreases while Chile shows an increase. The food supply in South America has shown an increase in the consumption of protein between 1965-74. Malnutrition is one of the most widespread health problems in South America, especially for infants less than 5 years of age.