Which population group is most commonly affected by undernutrition?

School-aged children are particularly vulnerable to undernutrition due to several reasons. During this stage of development, children experience significant growth and require adequate nutrients to support their physical and cognitive development. The demand for energy and essential nutrients is heightened when children are growing, making them more susceptible to the effects of inadequate nutrition.

Additionally, many children, especially in low-income areas, may lack access to nutritious foods, leading to deficiencies that can affect their overall health and academic performance. Chronic undernutrition during these formative years can result in long-term consequences, such as stunted growth, impaired cognitive function, and increased risk of disease.

While other groups, such as the elderly and pregnant women, also face risks of undernutrition due to various physiological and socioeconomic factors, school-aged children are specifically identified as a critical group at risk, due to the combination of their growth needs and potential barriers to obtaining sufficient nutrients. This focus on children underscores the importance of addressing nutritional needs during early stages of life to promote healthy development.