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WHAT IS MARASMUS
Marasmus is a type of malnutrition which most commonly occurs in infants under one year of age in the developing world. It is caused by an inadequate intake of nutrients, especially protein, or an inability to properly digest nutrients. It is characterized by growth retardation in weight more than height so that the head appears quite large relative to the body. There is a progressive wasting of subcutaneous fat and muscle so that the skin appears loose. Severe prolonged marasmus may result in permanent retardation.


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