Influence on the growth parameters of children

Abstract

The close interactions between toxin-producing bacterial agents and the host in cases of diarrhea are reflected in several significant physiologic and nutritional alterations. The negative nutritional effects of diarrhea result from reduced food consumption, reduced nutrient absorption, increased secretion, protein-losing enteropathy, and metabolic alterations. Diarrhea further induces weight loss and arrest in linear growth. Diarrhea is a major cause of chronic malnutrition and stunting in children, especially when fetal growth retardation is present. Marasmus and kwashiorkor may be precipitated. Epidemiologic studies have indicated that children in Latin America suffer from 2-8 diarrhea episodes/year during the 1st 3 years of life, The death toll from diarrhea was about 100,000 in Latin America in 1976. This situation lends urgency to the call for primary health services in developing countries, including oral rehydration programs, promotion of breastfeeding and adequate alimentation during the 1st 2 years of life. Also needed is research on the mechanisms of disease transmission and alternate approaches to prevention and control. - See more at: http://www.popline.org/node/411866#sthash.mL6PZh8z.dpuf