In poor communities around the world, malnutrition and diarrhea often create a vicious cycle. A malnourished child is more susceptible to diarrhea and, when an infection strikes, it can quickly become severe and sap essential nutrients. When it doesn’t kill, this cycle causes stunting and cognitive impairment, and can even delay important educational milestones.1
Other micronutrients may be important to maintaining the integrity of immune function and appetite during an episode of diarrhea. Iron deficiency, for example, depresses appetite and may increase the risk of malnutrition associated with diarrhea. PATH is working with our partners [6] to implement a comprehensive approach to diarrheal disease control that incorporates new technologies like zinc with proven interventions.
For more information, please visit PATH [7].