The Segments of the World Population at Nutritional Risk

Abstract

I find it useful to distinguish four aspects of problem of malnutrition: (a) the existence of people currently malnourished, (b) the existence of people in situations which are characterized by an unacceptable risk of malnutrition, (c) trends and forces which increase the numbers at risk of malnutrition, and (d) lack of sensitivity and/or effective response of society to the above realities. The four corresponding tasks include: (a) the identification and treatment of the malnourished, (b) the reduction of the number of people exposed chronically to the risk of malnutrition, (c) reducing or offsetting those forces which make for increase in the numbers at risk of malnutrition, and (d) improving the sensitivity and responsiveness of society to nutritional deprivation. While I frequently use this fourfold breakdown, I am constantly reformulating it. The present version is not offered as in any way definitive. This paper discusses aspects (b) and (c), though its concern is strongly with (d), the lack of society's sensitivity and effective response.