The lingering threat of malnutrition among children and young people in LEDCs is an issue that has been on the agenda for a while now, (CACMUN XXVIII Issues). Malnutrition can be defined as a medical condition resulting from a lack of vitamins, excessive loss of nutrients, and not enough calorie intakes. An extended period of malnutrition can result in starvation. Malnutrition can also be from overeating, excessive calorie intake, and indulging in ‘unhealthy,’ (malnutrition).
The World Health Organization estimates that one-third of the world is well-fed, one-third is under-fed one-third is starving, (the challenge). 146 million children are underweight in the developing world. South Asia has around 78 million, East Asia/pacific have about 22 million, and Africa has about 24 million. Malnutrition is not only an issue in the developing countries, but 4 million children are underweight in the developed countries, (the challenge).
Although this remains an issue, several steps have already been taken towards the prevention of malnutrition. There are many NGO’s and several committees in the UN dedicated to solving this issue. WFP is the food agency of the United Nations. In 2002, WFP fed 72 million people in 82 countries, (UNICEF). UNICIF is also a committee which dedicates its self for the protection of children’s rights and helps expand their opportunities, (UNICEF).
Bibliography
“Malnutrition” wikipedia <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malnutrition> 11 October, 2006
“The challenge” UNICEF http://www.childinfo.org/areas/malnutrition/ May 2006
“UNICEF” press centre http://www.unicef.org/media/media_13226.html
“CACMUN XXVIII Issues” <http://www.cacmun.net/issues/issues2006.htm>
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