Malnutrition, micronutrient deficiencies and non-communicable diseases

Estimated Economic Benefits of Reducing Low Birth Weight in Low-Income Countries

Low birth weight (LBW) is a major contributor to infant mortality. Beyond that, reducing low birth weight could result in appreciable economic benefits. The present paper considers the potential benefits from reducing low birth weight in seven distinct categories: 1. Reduced infant mortality; 2. Reduced neonatal care; 3. Reduced costs of infant/child illness; 4. Productivity gain from reduced stunting; 5. Productivity gain from increased ability; 6. Reduction in costs of chronic diseases; 7. Intergenerational benefits.

This paper can be accessed here