Stunting: meaning, definitions and examples
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stunting
[ˈstʌntɪŋ ]
Definition
growth inhibition
Stunting refers to the impaired growth and development experienced by children due to inadequate nutrition, repeated infections, and insufficient psychosocial stimulation. It is characterized by low height for age and reflects chronic malnutrition. Stunting can have long-term effects on health, cognitive development, and economic productivity. Addressing stunting is essential for improving children's well-being and breaking the cycle of poverty.
Synonyms
developmental delay, growth retardation, malnutrition.
Examples of usage
- The child's stunting was evident when he was measured at the clinic.
- Efforts to reduce stunting have become a priority for many governments.
- Proper nutrition during the first 1,000 days is crucial to prevent stunting.
- Health organizations are focusing on awareness regarding the issue of stunting.
Interesting Facts
Health
- Around 149 million children under five worldwide are stunted, which affects their growth and development.
- Stunting can lead to lifelong issues including poor health, cognitive impairment, and reduced economic productivity.
- The first 1,000 days from conception to a child's two years old are crucial for preventing stunting.
Socioeconomic Factors
- Children from poorer families are at a higher risk of stunting due to limited access to nutritious foods.
- Stunting is often seen in communities affected by war or natural disasters, disrupting food supplies and health services.
- Education levels of parents, particularly mothers, play a vital role in combating stunting through better health and nutrition practices.
Cultural Context
- In some cultures, there is a strong emphasis on food practices which can either contribute to healthy growth or lead to stunting.
- Traditional beliefs about health and nutrition can influence how families feed their children, impacting growth outcomes.
- Culturally appropriate interventions, like community feeding programs, can successfully reduce rates of stunting.
Psychology
- Children who face stunting may also experience psychological effects, including lower self-esteem and social withdrawal.
- Stunted growth can influence a child's academic performance due to health issues and lower energy levels.
- Social support and interventions can aid psychological resilience in stunted children, helping them cope with their challenges.
Global Initiatives
- Various international organizations, like UNICEF and WHO, are actively working to reduce stunting through nutritional programs.
- The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aim to end all forms of malnutrition, including stunting, by 2030.
- Success in reducing global stunting rates is often highlighted at international summits, emphasizing cooperation and policy change.
Translations
Translations of the word "stunting" in other languages:
🇵🇹 atrofia
🇮🇳 विकास अवरुद्ध करना
🇩🇪 Wachstumshemmung
🇮🇩 stunting
🇺🇦 задержка розвитку
🇵🇱 stunting
🇯🇵 成長阻害
🇫🇷 retard de croissance
🇪🇸 retardo en el crecimiento
🇹🇷 büyüme geriliği
🇰🇷 성장 저해
🇸🇦 تأخر النمو
🇨🇿 zpoždění růstu
🇸🇰 zastavený rast
🇨🇳 生长迟缓
🇸🇮 zastoj rasti
🇮🇸 vöxtur hindrun
🇰🇿 өсудің тежелуі
🇬🇪 მოსვლის შეწყვეტა
🇦🇿 böyümə geriliyi
🇲🇽 retraso en el crecimiento