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Knowledge4Policy
Knowledge for policy

Supporting policy with scientific evidence

We mobilise people and resources to create, curate, make sense of and use knowledge to inform policymaking across Europe.

  • Publication | 2022

New Global Estimates for Hidden Hunger: Action Needed to Address Alarming Micronutrient Deficiency Levels Worldwide

Global Food and Nutrition Security

  • Micronutrient deficiencies can have serious health and economic consequences; they increase the risk for infectious diseases, compromise child growth and development, and reduce educational outcomes and work productivity thus limiting human potential worldwide.

  • A new article in The Lancet Global Health estimates that 1 in 2 preschool-aged children and 2 in 3 women of reproductive age worldwide have at least one micronutrient deficiency.

  • Micronutrient deficiencies are most prevalent in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, but there is surprisingly high prevalence even in high-income countries.

  • Coordinated actions and investments are needed to scale up cost-effective micronutrient interventions and transform food systems to improve access to nutrient rich diets to support population health and resilience in light of rising global food insecurity and climate shocks.