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The full form of SAM is Severe Acute Malnutrition. It refers to a common health and social disorder among young children. In simple words, SAM or Severe Acute Malnutrition is defined by extremely low levels of weight-for-height/length or the presence of nutritional oedema. Moreover, SAM increases the risk of death in children under five years of age.
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Impact of Undernutrition
Here is an overview of the general impact of undernutrition on children:
- Children suffering from malnutrition are more prone to frequent illnesses.
- Undernutrition children are susceptible to infections.
- They require a longer duration to recover from diseases than other children of the same age.
- Malnutrition can also lead to impaired brain development and lower IQ in young children.
- Undernutrition children have an increased rate of mortality which can further increase if proper care and treatment are unavailable.
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What is the Difference Between SAM and MAM?
Here are an overview of the differences between SAM and MAM.
| Characteristics | SAM | MAM |
| Full Form | Severe Acute Malnutrition | Moderate Acute Malnutrition |
| Definition | It reflects extremely low weight for height which indicates a critical and life-threatening condition of children. | MAM reflects moderately low weight for height. It is not as severe as SAM. |
| Characteristics | Common characteristics include severe wasting, muscle and fat loss, and edema. | Wasting and stunting is present at low levels and are less severe. |
| Complications | SAM is more prone to life-threatening complications such as organ failure and infection. | MAM includes fewer complications but is still susceptible to growth issues. |
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