Question

What does PEM mean? Name one disease due to PEM. Also give its symptoms.

Answer 1

Protein-energy malnutrition or PEM is the condition of lack of energy due to the deficiency of all the macronutrients and many micronutrients. It can occur suddenly or gradually. It can be graded as mild, moderate or severe.

PEM can be classified into two types:

1. Primary PEM
2. Secondary PEM

In children, PEM is primarily of two types:

1. 1. Kwashiorkor
   2. Marasmus
      Marasmus Symptoms:

      • Weight Loss

      • Fat and muscle depletion

      • Most common in developing countries.

      • More common than Kwashiorkor

      • Prevalent in children younger than those affected by Kwashiorkor

      • Cell-mediated immunity is impaired, making the children more susceptible to infections.