Abstract
In this study, we conducted a systematic literature review of the various micronutrient deficiencies (MNDs) that affect children in India and an examination of whether there is a geographic basis for MNDs.MNDs are a common problem in the developing world, in particular, among children in South Asia. According to the United Nations Children’s Fund, millions of children suffer from stunted growth, cognitive delays, weakened immunity, and diseases because of MNDs. These physical ailments have several economic, social, and public health implications, and they can severely hamper a country’s growth. This study aims to clarify existing data on this topic and highlight the disparities between children living in urban and rural areas in India.The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed to conduct this systematic literature review of a total of five studies. Study quality was assessed using appropriate checklists, and the studies strengthened the hypothesis that MNDs are common among children in India. Because the selected studies were heterogeneous, no statistical conclusions are drawn here. However, a central premise is that MNDs in children are prevalent in India and are related to poverty. No link between geographic location and MNDs is established; rather, recommendations are made for further research on the topic.
Highlights
BackgroundChildhood undernutrition is a major public health concern and is the underlying cause of 3 million deaths per year globally
We conducted a systematic literature review of the various micronutrient deficiencies (MNDs) that affect children in India and an examination of whether there is a geographic basis for MNDs
The study conducted by Rakesh [15] reported the following: prevalence of anemia among adolescents according to recent studies is approximately 30%, and prevalence of severe anemia is less than 1% in all studies
Summary
BackgroundChildhood undernutrition is a major public health concern and is the underlying cause of 3 million deaths per year globally. Undernutrition includes stunting, wasting, and deficiencies of essential vitamins and minerals (micronutrients) [1]. A significant proportion of the world’s poor live in India, as do a significant proportion of the world’s malnourished children, and serious inequalities exist in growth, development, and opportunity. Poor dietary quality and undernutrition coexist with poverty, and poor dietary quality and significant micronutrient deficiencies (MNDs) are associated with poor growth during childhood. India has made tremendous progress on all fronts since independence including food production. A large portion of children still suffers from malnutrition attributable to micronutrition, and deficiencies of micronutrients such as iodine, iron, and vitamin A impact health to the cost of approximately 0.8-2.5% of India’s gross domestic product
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