A Comprehensive Analysis of Stunting Syndrome in Children in Developing Countries: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Abstract Stunting in children is recognized as the best overall indicator of children’s well-being. It is also the most prevalent form of malnutrition in children and accurately reflects the inequalities prevalent in the society. According to the 2019 World Bank report, the prevalence of stunted children in India is 38%, the second highest in Southeast Asia. On a priority basis, a target has been fixed to reduce the burden of stunting by 40% by 2025. Stunting may be viewed as “stunting syndrome” in view of its multifactorial nature and several pathological changes demonstrating linear growth retardation in early childhood. Linear growth failure serves as an indicator of many associated pathological disorders such as enhanced morbidity and mortality, reduced cognitive and neurodevelopmental potential, reduced physical growth potential, and an increased risk of chronic and metabolic diseases in childhood. Practically, stunting is a cyclical process where women who were stunted in childhood tend to give birth to low birth weight babies who later become stunted creating an intergenerational cycle of difficult-to-interrupt poverty and reduced human capital. These severe irreversible physical and neurocognitive impairments associated with stunting are accepted as a major global health priority. Hence, the mechanism of linear growth faltering needs to be understood, and short-, medium-, and long-term consequences are to be identified and addressed early.