E148: How do parasites limit a child's growth?
SJK Audio Edition · Miranda Wilson
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Show Notes
Read this article at: https://www.sciencejournalforkids.org/articles/how-do-parasites-limit-a-childs-growth/ or watch at: https://youtu.be/4CgQSlibgs8
Summary:Researchers wanted to explore different pathways by which parasites can lead to stunting.
Abstract: Stunting affects millions of kids around the world. This means they are not growing as tall as they should. Unfortunately, stunted children are more likely to have health problems later in life. One of the major reasons for stunting is not eating enough healthy food. Research also indicates that parasites can cause stunting. These parasites are common in poorer or tropical areas. So, how could parasites affect child growth? To find out, we examined evidence on stunting from different countries and organizations. We found several different ways in which parasites can lead to stunting. For example, they can interfere with nutrition, damage the gut and put stress on the immune system. So, it's important to tackle both malnutrition and parasitic infections to prevent stunting.
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