How to avoid the loss of potential in over 200 million young children in the developing world

Abstract

Over 200 million children under age 5 in developing countries are not achieving their full potential; therefore they are less prepared for and less able to profit from school. Societal costs include a 20% loss of adult wages per child. Major risks for poor child development include stunting, iodine and iron deficiency, and lack of cognitive stimulation. Risks needing further investigation include maternal depression, infectious diseases such as malaria, and environmental toxins. Evaluations of intervention at scale demonstrate that loss of potential …