Effects of Micronutrient Deficiencies on Human Health: Its Status in South Asia

Vitamin A, iodine, and iron deficiencies affect large numbers of people worldwide. A deficiency of one or more of these micronutrients adversely affects the physical and mental abilities of humans. South Asia contains a high percentage of these individuals, not just because of its large population,...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of crop production 2002-10, Vol.6 (1-2), p.55-98
Main Authors: Schaetzel, T., Sankar, R.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Anemia
Bangladesh
deficiency
goiter
India
iodine
iodized salt
iron
malnutrition
micronutrient
Nepal
Pakistan
South Asia
vitamin A
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Summary:Vitamin A, iodine, and iron deficiencies affect large numbers of people worldwide. A deficiency of one or more of these micronutrients adversely affects the physical and mental abilities of humans. South Asia contains a high percentage of these individuals, not just because of its large population, but also the prevalence of deficiency is higher there than in many other parts of the world. The reasons for the high rates of deficiency in South Asia are many, but they include inadequate availability of micronutrient-rich foods, sub-optimal dietary habits, and high rates of infection. Across the region, national plans vary from (a) increasing availability of appropriate foods, (b) introducing new dietary behaviors, (c) improving health status, and (d) directly addressing deficiency through intervention programs. The extent to which each of the countries is making progress toward the goals of these plans can help in understanding the priorities for future efforts to address micronutrient malnutrition. This article discusses the adverse effects of micronutrient deficiencies in humans with special reference to South Asia.
ISSN:1092-678X
DOI:10.1300/J144v06n01_06