Ann Early, age 13, of Reno, Nev., for her question:

WHAT CAUSES MALNUTRITION?

Malnutrition is an unhealthy condition caused by poor intake, absorption or use of nutrients by the body. There are a number of types of malnutrition, depending on the nutrient or nutrients missing.

Protein calorie malnutrition occurs when the diet is low in both proteins and calories. This condition is called marasmus if the diet is particularly low in calories. It is called kwashiorkor if the diet is especially low in proteins.

Malnutrition caused by a low intake of vitamins may lead to vitamin deficiencies. Various diseases result from deficiencies of different vitamins.

Malnutrition may also be due to mineral deficiencies. For example, lack of iron or copper can cause an abnormal condition of the blood called anemia.

Social and economic conditions as well as natural conditions such as flooding and drought may produce malnutrition. Poverty, war, disease and ignorance concerning a balanced diet also cause countless cases of malnutrition.

Primary malnutrition results when the body does not get enough food or the right kinds of food. Secondary malnutrition occurs when, because of disease, the body cannot use nutrients even though they are present in the food.