Such cases as are referred to above have been known recently to occur with increasing frequency in various parts of India. Assam, Bengal, Madras, Bombay, all have their proper share of these. It is likely that they are not diagnosed as cases of malnutrition but treated symptomatically. East, South and West Africa, Latin America, the Carribean region and also the South Sea Islands are other regions in which such manifestations of malnutrition occur. It looks as if one could find a belt of malnutrition girdling the earth through the tropics.
Even in these regions, special efforts had to be made to acquaint the medical profession of the genesis and correct methods of treatment of this type of malignant malnutrition. The after effects of malnutrition in infancy and childhood are serious. Although the condition may be cured, it leaves a mark for life on the individual and may permanently damage one or more vital organs of the body. It is, therefore, all the more important to try and prevent malnutrition in early life.
The brief account given above would show that there is widespread malnutrition in India. It is primarily due to two causes: (1) insufficiency of quality food and (2) poverty of the masses. To this one can add prejudices born of ignorance and superstition; these obviously play a minor role only. Unless the two main hurdles are successfully crossed there is little chance for any improvement in the existing state of affairs.
One, therefore, devoutly hopes that the Government efforts to increase food production and to improve the economic status of the masses meet with success. They cannot succeed, however, without the whole- hearted co-operation and unstinted active support from the people. It is a long road that we have to travel and quick results should not be expected. Given determination and perseverance, however, one must obtain tangible results within a reasonable time.
