Fight against hunger

Hunger and malnutrition are problems that humanity has faced and continues to face at every stage of its history. In recent years, the war in Ukraine has exacerbated the global food crisis. Russia’s attacks on farmland and ports, through which grains and food products were exported southward, have led to significant difficulties. Urgent improvement of the food situation is now essential in the most famine-threatened areas of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, as malnutrition in these regions remains a driving factor behind instability and further internal and migratory crises.

Economic factors also contribute to worsening the situation. The consequences of these problems will be seen worldwide, including the rise in prices of basic food items. Millions of people around the world, especially women and children, will face issues such as disrupted access to healthcare, sanitation, and water, as well as lack of safe shelter.

What is hunger and malnutrition?

Malnutrition is a condition in which the body does not receive a sufficient amount of essential nutrients necessary for functioning, such as proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Hunger, on the other hand, is a state of extreme malnutrition. It is a serious problem that has negative consequences for both individuals and societies as a whole. It can lead not only to health deterioration but also to death. Vulnerable individuals – children, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and the elderly, are the ones most rapidly affected by hunger. That is why the Polish Medical Mission also strives to ensure nutrition for those in need.

What are the symptoms of malnutrition?

The symptoms of malnutrition can be diverse, depending on the duration of this condition and individual characteristics of the body.

1. Weight loss
2. Fatigue
3. Muscle weakness, swelling
4. Skin problems, hair loss, brittle nails
5. Anemia
6. Hormonal disorders
7. Gastrointestinal disorders (diarrhea, constipation, bloating, stomach ulcers)
8. Weakened immune system
9. Stunted growth in children
10. Cardiovascular problems

What are the consequences of malnutrition?

The consequences of malnutrition may depend on the severity of the condition, its duration, and the overall health status of the individual. Therefore, it is important to have access to medical care and take necessary actions to address this situation in the case of malnutrition. Malnutrition, which is a problem in a particular region, affects not only the health of individuals but also the overall situation of the population. Persistent hunger can lead to social and economic destabilization, increase the risk of conflicts, and diminish the development potential of the community.