Malnutrition in Haiti

Statistics of Malnutrition

• One in 10 children dies before the age of 5
• Malnutrition is the leading cause of death in children
• One third of 1 year olds show signs of severe growth retardation
• Forty percent of all 5 year olds have stunted growth and brain development
• Malnutrition contributes to 60% of all deaths in children

The Effects of Malnutrition

• Poor weight gain and impaired linear growth
• Impairment of the immune system
• Behavior changes — apathy, anxiety, depression
• Developmental delay
• Permanent cognitive deficits