Final answer:
Severe malnutrition, particularly in children, and deficiencies in essential micronutrients have a significant impact on nutritional status. Kwashiorkor and marasmus are severe forms of malnutrition that affect growth and development, while deficiencies in iron, vitamin A, and iodine lead to serious health conditions. The underlying causes include poverty and issues with food distribution and accessibility.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the abnormalities that have the most substantial impact on nutritional status are severe forms of malnutrition such as kwashiorkor and marasmus. These conditions are particularly devastating for children, who require essential nutrients for proper growth and development. Kwashiorkor is characteristically seen when there is a profound deficiency in protein, leading to symptoms like edema. On the other hand, marasmus results from a critical shortage of calories, causing extreme undernourishment. Pregnant women and children are especially vulnerable to the effects of these nutritional abnormalities, experiencing conditions such as low birth weight, stunting, wasting, and cognitive impairments. Furthermore, deficiencies in micronutrients like iron, vitamin A, and iodine can lead to significant health issues, including anemia, weakened immune systems, and in the case of iodine deficiency, thyroid dysfunction.
The primary causes of these nutritional abnormalities stem from unequal food distribution and accessibility issues, often exacerbated by poverty. Undernutrition perpetuates a cycle of poverty due to the resultant health and ability to work and earn an income. While undernutrition remains a critical problem in many regions, overnutrition is also a growing concern, leading to obesity and associated health risks. This dual burden of malnutrition poses a complex challenge to global health.