Poverty impacts child growth

MEXICO CITY (EFE)— In Mexico, one in seven children under five suffers from stunted growth or chronic malnutrition, according to figures from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Health and Nutrition Survey (Ensanut). This problem compromises children's physical and cognitive development.

In the context of World Child Growth Day, commemorated on September 20, Luis Ortiz Hernández, a professor at the Autonomous Metropolitan University (UAM), explained that poverty and inequality are the main factors behind short childhood stature in Mexico.

"Until recently, half of all households were poor, which limits access to healthy food, especially animal products, which are essential for growth," the researcher noted.

Ortiz noted that low-income households tend to opt for cheaper foods, such as rice, corn, wheat, oil, and sugar. "Even though they consume more calories, they don't get the nutrients they need to grow, such as animal protein," she warned.

Growth retardation can also be associated with medical causes. One of these is growth hormone deficiency, present in approximately one in every 3,800 children. This hormone, produced by the pituitary gland, "stimulates child development and maintains tissues and organs," the specialist indicated.

Early identification and treatment with biosynthetic hormone replacement therapies can make all the difference.

According to the pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk Mexico, "children who begin treatment early may benefit more than those who begin later."

Angélica Licona, the company's senior medical manager for rare diseases, emphasized the importance of timely diagnosis: "It's very important that, if you notice any symptoms that indicate growth retardation, you consult a pediatric endocrinologist for testing."

Ortiz emphasized that the effects of childhood malnutrition extend beyond childhood. “It reduces cognitive development and the ability to learn, limiting social mobility and future job opportunities,” she stated.

In this context, the specialist highlighted the role of school nutrition programs: "Any policy that reduces poverty and inequality will have positive effects on children's height and development."

He also stated that "school nutrition is key to ensuring a varied and balanced diet."

Globally, the WHO estimates that 144 million children under five are stunted, representing 22% of the child population. Although Latin America has achieved progress in recent decades, significant gaps persist, especially in rural and indigenous communities.

For experts, overcoming the challenge requires comprehensive actions that combine timely diagnosis, nutrition, access to healthcare, drinking water, and sanitation.