The word hunger can refer to the painful sensation caused by lack of food, the need or scarcity of food in a country or a strong desire or urge. In relation to the term World Hunger, the word refers to the lack or scarcity of food in a country (World Hunger, 2011). In some parts of the world, notably the United States, where hunger is a problem, malnutrition is becoming a very serious concern. Malnutrition is a very basic term for the general lack of some or all of the nutrients necessary to maintain human health. There are two main types of malnutrition: protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) and micronutrient deficiency (World Hunger, 2011). Although both types of malnutrition are dangerous, PEM is the most important and notable form of the disease and is eminently fatal. During the early years of child development, particularly between the ages of zero and five, malnutrition is of greatest concern. Failing to properly nourish a child's body can cause irreversible damage to the mind, leading to developmental delays, stunted physical, cognitive and emotional growth, mental retardation, permanent illness and even death. In many countries around the world, lack of funds and resources contributes greatly to problems of malnutrition among children. However, in established countries like the United States, where large programs such as Women Infants and Children are set up to eradicate these problems, they still exist. This is largely due to lack of education. Many young mothers are unaware of the nutritional needs of their young children. Unfortunately, many cases are also the result of abuse and neglect. Whatever the motive or situation that led to the circumstances that led to the appearance of a malnourished child, education is the answer...... middle of paper ...... develop healthy physically , cognitively, emotionally and socially, a child must be nourished.BibliographyDeLong, GR (1993). Effects of nutrition on brain development in humans. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 285-290. McCarron, D.A., Richartz, N., Brigham, S., White, M.K., Klein, S.P., & Kessel, S.S. (2010). Community priorities for improving nutrition and physical activity among children. Pediatrics, 73-89.Nutrition. (nd). Retrieved October 2, 2011 from the World Bank: web.worldbank.org Ruel, M. and Hoddinott, J. (November 2008). Investing in early childhood nutrition. Retrieved October 2, 2011 from IFPRI: ifpri.org Shankoff, JP and Phillips, D. (2000). From neurons to neighborhoods. Washington, DC: National Academies Press. Hunger in the world. (August 16, 2011). Retrieved October 2, 2011 from www.worldhunger.org