Effects of Hunger on Children

Immune System Weakens: The first major impact is the collapse of immune system. As the immune system of children become weak, they become susceptible to ailments. As a child fails to get necessary amounts of Vitamin A, chances of death due of ailments like malaria, measles and diarrhea increase by nearly 24%.

Growth Becomes Abnormal: Hunger can lead to abnormal growth in children. Possibilities of low weight at birth and spina bifida (a gap in spinal cord caused by defective development) increase if enough folic acid is not provided to the developing child in utero by its mother. Iodine deficiency can lead to stunted growth and retardation.

Anemia: Iron deficiency can lead to Anemia. It is a condition where the blood receives less oxygen because of iron deficiency. Iron is responsible for oxygenating the blood. Anemic children suffer from breath shortness and dizziness.

PEU: Prolonged hunger in children can lead to PEU or protein-energy undernutrition. A form of PEU is marasmus where the body breaks down its own muscles, internal organs and fat to receive energy.

Cognitive Development: Hunger can lead to loss of brainpower and knowledge in children that reduce their learning capability and in turn effects the development of the nation.

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