Neuropsychological consequences of early childhood malnutrition in Zambia and sub-Saharan Africa

2026/02/27 by Edina Chirwa, Kavwanga E. S. Yambayamba · 1 voice
Nursing · Medicine · Social Sciences · #Child Nutrition and Water Access #Child Nutrition and Feeding Issues #Poverty, Education, and Child Welfare

paper · doi:10.20935/acadneurosci8155

openalex publication_date 2026/02/27 · openalex created_date 2026/02/28 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/26

Abstract

Introduction: Early childhood malnutrition remains a critical public health problem in low- and middle-income countries, with Sub-Saharan Africa bearing a disproportionate burden. In Zambia, persistent undernutrition and micronutrient deficiencies continue to affect a substantial proportion of children under five years, raising concerns about long-term neuropsychological development and human capital formation. This integrative review synthesises current data on the biological mechanisms and neuropsychological outcomes linked with early childhood malnutrition, with particular attention to Zambia and comparable African contexts.

Citations

• Revisiting maternal and child undernutrition in low-income and middle-income countries: variable progress towards an unfinished agenda

Discussions

• GOD FORGIVE US..the defunding of USAID will have huge repercussions. How can African governments incorporate scientists in national nutritional programs? doi.org/10.20935/Aca... with Edina Chirwa, Ka [bsky, 3 points, 0 comments]

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