Impacto de la investigación de la desnutrición infantil crónica en el desarrollo cognitivo educativo de los niños en la provincia del Guayas

Abstract

CONDITION FOR PUBLICATION OF PROJECT. Chronic childhood malnutrition is a persistent problem that affects children's physical and cognitive development in various regions of the world. In the province of Guayas, this condition has been identified as one of the main limiting factors for full childhood development, with both short- and long-term repercussions. This analysis aims to identify the causes, consequences, and socioeconomic factors that contribute to chronic childhood malnutrition in the region. Delayed cognitive and educational development in children is closely related to chronic malnutrition. A lack of essential nutrients during the first years of life negatively impacts brain development, affecting learning and memory capacity. The main causes identified include insufficient or inadequate nutrition, lack of access to health services, and the prevalence of unhealthy eating practices. Furthermore, factors such as low parental educational level and poverty limit access to adequate educational and health resources. The consequences of chronic malnutrition on children's cognitive and educational development are profound. Learning delays can manifest as difficulties in academic performance, which, in turn, reduces the chances of accessing higher education and improving their quality of life. This perpetuates an intergenerational cycle of poverty, as malnourished children are less likely to obtain well-paying jobs in the future. Furthermore, the impact on physical health can also lead to a greater risk of disease and disability, which further impacts opportunities for personal and community development. Chronic childhood malnutrition is a prevalent problem, particularly affecting rural areas and the poorest sectors of the province. Malnutrition rates in these areas are higher due to a combination of factors such as low income, limited access to nutritious food, and poor health infrastructure. Socioeconomic variables, such as parental education level, housing conditions, and lack of food security, play a crucial role in perpetuating malnutrition. Low-income families with limited education have greater difficulty accessing nutrient-rich foods and adequate medical services, increasing their children's risk of malnutrition. Food security levels are low, especially in rural areas, reflected in poor diets and a lack of access to healthy foods. Family income is also a determining factor, as low-income families cannot afford to purchase nutrient-rich foods. Furthermore, parents' educational attainment is low in many communities, limiting families' ability to make informed decisions about nutrition and childcare. Poor housing and lack of access to adequate health services further exacerbate chronic child malnutrition.