The double burden of malnutrition. Case studies from six developing countries

In many developing countries, under- and overnutrition are occurring simultaneously among different population groups. This phenomenon, referred to as the "double burden" of malnutrition, is not limited to upper-income developing countries, but is occurring across the globe in countries with very different cultures and dietary customs. This report assesses the extent of the double burden of malnutrition and identifies programmes currently in place in six case study countries: South Africa, China, Egypt, India, Mexico and the Philippines. It appears that the main challenge for governments is to intensify efforts to prevent and manage overweight and obesity and disease processes associated with overnutrition, while maintaining efforts to eliminate undernutrition and micronutrient deficiencies.