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Keywords

malnutrition, stunting, wasting, overweight, obesity, Argentina, South America, Latin America

Abstract

Abstract:

Child malnutrition rates in Argentina have been on the rise, driven by factors such as income inequality, harsh climatic conditions, and geographic isolation, leading to an increased reliance on highly processed, nutrient-poor foods. This escalating issue has wide-ranging health and educational implications, including poor neurocognitive development, higher rates of hypertension, and greater risks of obesity and diabetes. Particularly in impoverished regions, like Jujuy, malnutrition exacerbates disparities in child health outcomes and educational achievement. Though international organizations like UNICEF and Bountiful Children’s Foundation are working to address malnutrition through supplements, education, and screenings, gaps in program implementation persist, especially in rural and lower-income areas. Despite Argentina’s relatively high GDP, the lack of robust, widespread nutrition programs has hindered significant progress. To mitigate the cycle of malnutrition and its long-term effects, comprehensive, nationwide interventions must be developed and evaluated for their effectiveness. Addressing this issue could break the cycle of intergenerational malnutrition, improving both health outcomes and educational performance in vulnerable communities across Argentina.

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