CLASSIFICATION OF MALNUTRITION

We have three types of malnutritions:
1. Acute Malnutrition (Weight Loss): Measured by the weight / height, reflects the losses or gains weight regardless of age. It is reversible. It includes two types:
- Moderate acute malnutrition: Determined by an index weight / height <80% of median weight for the reference height of National Center for Heath Statistic (NCHS) or W / H = 70-80% in children from 6 months to 18 years or the Mid Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) <125 mm in children from 6 to 59 months. In adults (except pregnant and lactating women) is determined by a BMI <18.5 kg/m2. There are no signs or clinical forms.
- Severe Acute Malnutrition : Determined by an index W / H <70% of median weight for NCHS in children from 6 months to 18 years or MUAC <110 mm in children aged from 6 to 59 months and / or the presence of bilateral oedema. In adults (except pregnant and lactating women) is determined by a BMI <16 kg/m2. It may be with or without complications.
2. Chronic Malnutrition (stunting): Measured by the the ratio (height/age) and reflects the growth. It is difficult to reverse.
3. Underweight: Measured by the ratio Weight / Age, reflects in the same time the ratio W / H: we speak about "dénutrition."