Double burden of malnutrition: A silent driver of double burden of disease in low– and middle–income countries

Abstract

Double burden of malnutrition, characterised by undernutrition among poor children and obesity among deprived adults, is a serious global problem and an important promoter of ‘double burden of disease’ which is currently affecting low– and middle–income countries. Possible ways to reduce this burden is through education on the importance of equilibrium between energy intake and expenditure; ensuring conditions for optimal fetal and early child development; and reducing poverty as one of the main drivers of both undernutrition and obesity, through empowering local communities.

Keywords

• Double burden
• undernutrition
• obesity
• burden reduction
• low- and middle-income countries