HNE-39806 Hidden Hunger: Micronutrient Deficiencies in Developing Countries

Course

Credits 6.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

HNE-20806 Metabolic Aspects of Nutrition.

Continuation courses:

Thesis or Internship Human Nutrition.

Contents:

The course will focus on the causes and consequences of micronutrient malnutrition in developing countries as well as on the available control strategies. The main focus will be on deficiencies of iodine, iron, vitamin A, zinc and folic acid. Advantages and disadvantages of strategies to alleviate micronutrient malnutrition, such as dietary diversification, supplementation, fortification, biofortification and health promotion will be discussed.

Learning outcomes:

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:
- understand the global disease burden of micronutrient deficiencies and relate them to the Millennium Development Goals;
- put the economic, social, physiological and clinical causes and consequences of micronutrient deficiencies into perspective;
- have knowledge of the WHO guidelines on micronutrient requirements throughout the life cycle;
- understand methods to assess discrepancies between dietary intake of micronutrients and actual bioavailability and physiology;
- understand how common infectious diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis and malaria affect micronutrient metabolism in the body;
- understand the concept of 'double burden of disease';
- measure and interpret basic clinical parameters related to micronutrient deficiencies and understand how such measurements can be implemented in the field;
- thoroughly understand the concepts and prerequisites of strategies to alleviate micronutrient malnutrition;
- understand the role of various agencies and organizations that work towards the implementation of programmes to combat micronutrient malnutrition in developing countries.

Activities:

- lectures;
- guest lectures;
- tutorials;
- group work;
- self-study;
- practical.

Examination:

- individual written open book exam (60%);
- group case study report (40%);
- group presentation (± 0.5 credits for case study report);
- obligatory presence during laboratory practical and group presentations.

Literature:

Course reader via WUR-shop. Students are advised to purchase the course's recommended reference book:
Richard D. Semba; Martin W. Bloem. (editors). (2008). Nutrition and Health in Developing Countries, 2nd ed.
The book can also be downloaded as an e-book for free.