As the World Health Organization puts it, “between starvation and death, there is nearly always disease”. Starvation is an extreme, potentially fatal form of acute malnutrition that weakens the immune system, leaving the body susceptible to infectious diseases such as cholera, malaria, pneumonia and measles. Malnutrition, even in its less extreme form, has long-term effects such as impaired physical and cognitive development, reduced educational attainment and labour productivity, and an increased risk of disease and death.
Ensuring people get the right nutrition not only reduces suffering and saves lives — it also prevents long-term health issues. This is particularly important in conflict settings where access to families in need is challenging. That’s why WFP works to prevent and mitigate famine through targeted food, nutrition and cash-based assistance. It helps people meet their immediate needs, while also bolstering their longer-term resilience against future hunger crises.