Effects and Risks of Pediatric Malnutrition on Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Cognitive Decline

Malnutrition during early childhood is a significant risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) and cognitive decline (CD), with lasting effects into adulthood. Deficiencies in essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, hinder the proper development of the brain, leading to issues such as attention deficits, cognitive delays, and neurological disabilities. This project aims to examine the effects of pediatric malnutrition on neurodevelopmental outcomes and assess the metrics used to analyze cognitive outcomes in pediatric patients. Utilizing electronic databases such as PubMed and JAMA Network, a systematic literature review was conducted to evaluate the impact of CD and NDD in children under 5 years old. Based on whether NDD and CD were assessed in malnourished children in developing countries, peer-reviewed publications published between 2010 and 2024 were chosen and analyzed. Studies demonstrate a mild to strong association between early childhood malnutrition and changes in brain structure and function, including reduced brain volume, low maturation rate and impaired myelination. Nutritional interventions, including micronutrient supplementation and early dietary support, have been shown to improve cognitive outcomes in malnourished children. However, the effects are particularly pronounced in low-income populations, where malnutrition is prevalent. Addressing these challenges through targeted, culturally-sensitive interventions is crucial for mitigating the long-term developmental consequences of early life malnutrition. By refining intervention strategies and identifying biomarkers for early detection, targeted policies can be developed to enhance neurodevelopmental outcomes and improve quality of life across populations, particularly in resource-limited settings.