Research from Holt International reveals that children with disabilities face significantly higher risks of malnutrition, including chronic undernutrition, stunting, and micronutrient deficiencies — yet are frequently excluded from mainstream nutrition and health services.
The policy brief, “Escaping the Vicious Cycle: Inclusive Nutrition for Children with Disabilities is Non-Negotiable,” highlights the urgent need for inclusive nutrition systems that address the unique challenges these children face. Findings show that 74% of children with disabilities experience feeding difficulties, 40% are malnourished, and they have 25% higher odds of illness compared to their peers without disabilities.
“Nutrition is foundational to survival, development, and dignity,” said Emily DeLacey PhD, RDN, LDN. “Without intentional inclusion, children with disabilities are left behind at every stage, from early development through lifelong outcomes.”
“Nutrition is foundational to survival, development, and dignity,” said Emily DeLacey PhD, RDN, LDN. “Without intentional inclusion, children with disabilities are left behind at every stage, from early development through lifelong outcomes.”
The brief underscores that malnutrition and disability are deeply interconnected. Poor maternal and early childhood nutrition can increase the risk of developmental delays, while malnutrition further exacerbates cognitive and physical impairment, creating a dangerous and preventable cycle.
Barriers such as feeding challenges, poverty, stigma, institutionalization, and limited access to disability-inclusive services compound these risks. As a result, children with disabilities remain among the most nutritionally vulnerable and excluded.
Call to Action
Holt International is calling on governments, donors, and development partners to take immediate action to:
- Recognize inclusive nutrition as a fundamental right for children with disabilities
- Integrate disability-specific strategies into national nutrition policies and monitoring systems
- Strengthen caregiver capacity through training on adaptive feeding, hygiene, child development and importance of interaction
- Increase funding for specialized services, including therapeutic support and adaptive equipment
- Promote family-based care and prevent institutionalization of children
- Improve data collection by including those with disabilities
- Ensure all children receive growth monitoring and screening
“Investing in inclusive nutrition is not optional,” the brief concludes. “It is essential to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow, learn, and reach their full potential.”
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