Question

Differentiate between underweight and wasting.

Hint:

Underweight = Low weight for age (chronic malnutrition); Wasting = Low weight for height (acute malnutrition).

Answer 1

Underweight	Wasting
Refers to a condition where a child’s weight is low for their age. It indicates chronic malnutrition.	Refers to a condition where a child’s weight is too low for their height or body size. It indicates acute malnutrition.
It reflects both past and present nutritional status.	It reflects recent and severe weight loss or failure to gain weight.
It is measured by comparing weight-for-age using growth charts.	It is measured by comparing weight-for-height using growth charts.