Final answer:
Diarrhea is a leading cause of death among children under five in impoverished areas, largely due to contaminated water and poor sanitation. It can be prevented with treatments like zinc supplements and oral rehydration therapy. Malnutrition, related infections, and undernutrition due to micronutrient deficiencies also contribute significantly to child mortality and developmental deficits.
Step-by-step explanation:
Diarrhea is a common cause of death and developmental deficits in impoverished areas and can be prevented with low-cost treatments like zinc and oral rehydration therapy (ORT). Children under five in low-income countries frequently succumb to diarrhea, which is often caused by contaminated water and poor sanitation. This results in a high number of deaths due to the resulting severe dehydration, and the young victims often suffer from recurring infections that can lead to malnutrition and death. Other contributing factors to child mortality include pneumonia, malaria, and undernutrition. Undernutrition exacerbates the likelihood of children suffering from growth deficits, wasting, or stunting, arising from a diverse range of causes including inadequate maternal nutrition, low birthweight, and deficiencies in micronutrients like iron, vitamin A, and iodine.
These conditions can impair cognitive and motor development, immune system functionality, and overall growth, leaving children vulnerable to a host of debilitating diseases and conditions. The availability of safe water, adequate sanitation, and nutrition are essential in fighting these healthcare challenges. Improvements in sanitation, increased accessibility to safe drinking water, and the implementation of basic healthcare provisions such as immunization and treatment for common illnesses can greatly reduce the risk of these potentially fatal diseases.