Populations at Risk
Malnutrition can affect anyone no matter the part of the world you are at, but some people are at a higher risk for one reason or another. Populations at higher risk of malnutrition include:
- People living in developing countries or areas with limited access to food: There are places in the world that may be lacking in certain nutrients. Undernutrition and micronutrient deficiencies are especially common in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia.
- Individuals with increased nutrient needs, especially children and pregnant or breastfeeding women: In some developing countries, 24–31% of pregnant and breastfeeding mothers are malnourished.
- People that live in poverty or have low incomes: Low socioeconomic status is associated with malnutrition. Because the individual is unable to provide himself with enough foods that are rich in essential nutrients.
- Older adults, particularly those who live alone or have disabilities: These sets of people are unable to prepare the food they need. Research shows that up to 22% of older adults are malnourished and over 45% are at risk of malnutrition.
- People with issues that affect nutrient absorption: Certain underlying health conditions can affect your nutrient intake. People with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis may be up to four times more likely to have malnutrition than those without these conditions.