The double burden of malnutrition in Bolivian adolescents: an emerging public health priority
Abstract
Malnutrition remains one of the major global public health challenges. In low- and middle-income countries, this problem has taken on a new dimension due to the coexistence of different forms of malnutrition: undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, overweight, and obesity. This reflects the demographic, social, and dietary changes associated with the nutritional transition. Adolescence is a critical stage for growth and development, characterized by high nutritional demands and the consolidation of dietary habits that impact adult health. However, this population group continues to be under-prioritized in nutritional policies, especially in contexts of socioeconomic inequality and structural food insecurity.
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