UNICEF Sounds Alarm on Malnutrition Crisis in West Asia : 77 Milion Children Suffering From Malnutrition

According to SAEDNEWS, In a concerning announcement, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has highlighted a critical health crisis affecting the youth of West Asia and North Africa. According to UNICEF, an alarming 77 million children and teenagers in this region are suffering from malnutrition.

UNICEF's statement revealed that the malnutrition crisis is severe, with a staggering number of at least 77 million young individuals grappling with the repercussions of inadequate nutrition. Moreover, the situation is further complicated by the fact that 55 million children in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region are classified as overweight or obese, indicating a dual burden of malnutrition affecting this demographic.

The issue is particularly prevalent among school-aged children across all 20 countries in the region. UNICEF reported that one third of school-age children and teenagers are struggling with overweight and obesity, while an additional 24 million children face malnutrition-related health issues such as stunted growth and thinness.

Adil Khizr, UNICEF’s Regional Director, expressed concern over these figures, calling the statistics surprising for the year 2024. He warned that the ongoing conflicts and crises may exacerbate an already dire situation, further endangering the health and well-being of children in the region.

This alarming situation calls for urgent attention and action to combat malnutrition and ensure a healthier future for the youth of West Asia and North Africa.