Business Recorder
KARACHI: Zinc deficiency is a widespread but under-recognized public health issue in Pakistan, with significant implications for child growth, immunity, and overall population health. Like much of South Asia, Pakistan faces a high burden of micronutrient deficiencies, and zinc is among the most critical. National data (like Pakistan’s National Nutrition Survey 2018) shows about 18–22 percent of children are zinc deficient. Around 1 in 5 women of reproductive age is also deficient More broadly, over 60 million Pakistanis have inadequate zinc intake. The Survey has also consistently shown high rates of stunting—affecting roughly 35–40 percent of children under five—which is closely associated with inadequate zinc intake. Studies estimate that a substantial proportion of children and women of reproductive age in Pakistan do not meet their daily zinc requirements. This places millions at risk of impaired growth and increased susceptibility to infections. Dr Anum Arshad Beg, Assistant Professor, Head of Department, Family Medicines at Dow University of Health Sciences, told Business Recorder she has found that out of every 10 children under the age of five who come to her clinic, around six to seven are zinc deficient. Meanwhile paediatrician Dr Kashif Abbas believes some “40 percent of pre-school-going children are zinc deficient in Pakistan.” The primary reasons for zinc deficiency in Pakistan are dietary and socioeconomic. The typical Pakistani diet relies heavily on staple cereals such as wheat and rice. While these foods provide calories, they contain phytates—naturally occurring compounds that actually inhibit zinc absorption in the body. As a result, even when zinc is present in the diet, it is not efficiently utilized. At the same time, consumption of zinc-rich foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy remains limited, particularly among low-income households where affordability is a major constraint. Poverty and food insecurity further compound the issue. Large segments of the population lack access to a diverse diet, relying instead on inexpensive, filling foods with low micronutrient density. Poor maternal nutrition also contributes to intergenerational cycles of deficiency, with undernourished mothers more likely to give birth to children who are already at risk. Inadequate public awareness about balanced diets and limited access to fortified foods in rural areas also play a role. The consequences of zinc deficiency are serious and far-reaching. Dr Beg explained that “zinc boosts immunity both in children and adults. This means its deficiency increases the risk of infections.” Dr Abbas said that if a child’s zinc level is low, they run the risk of becoming immunodeficient, growth-stunted, and malnourished, making them more susceptible to infections. It is very important for a child’s growth, hair, nails, and skin. It also helps in wound healing. “From a women’s health perspective, it is crucial for fertility and pregnancy and helps improve reproductive health,” said Dr Beg, while Dr Abbas added: “If pregnant women are zinc deficient, then this transmits from mother to child.” Zinc-deficient children are more vulnerable to infections such as diarrhoea and pneumonia—two leading causes of child mortality in Pakistan. In adults, deficiency can result in reduced immunity, poor wound healing, and complications during pregnancy. Zinc plays an important role in maintaining a healthy digestive system, both by supporting the gut lining and helping the body manage infections. Since Zinc is a trace element - a chemical element present in minute concentrations - a small quantity of it is enough. Addressing zinc deficiency requires a combination of nutritional, policy, and public health interventions. One key strategy is food fortification, particularly of widely consumed staples like wheat flour. Zinc supplementation programs—especially for young children and pregnant women—can also provide immediate benefits. Promoting dietary diversification is equally important, encouraging the inclusion of affordable zinc-rich foods such as legumes, lentils, eggs, and, where possible, animal-source foods. Improving overall awareness about nutrition and investing in maternal and child health programs are critical steps toward long-term change. In addition, agricultural and food policies that increase access to nutrient-rich foods can help reduce dependency on cereal-heavy diets. According to Dr Abbas, mothers should ensure timely feeding and begin weaning at around six months of age, introducing simple and balanced complementary foods. He explained that from nine months onward, children should gradually be given animal-based proteins including red and white meat, eggs, and dairy products as part of their diet. If any signs of deficiency are observed, parents should consult paediatric experts and ensure regular check-ups, particularly to monitor height, weight, and overall growth. Zinc supplementation programs—especially for young children and pregnant women—can also provide immediate benefits. Dr Beg said that zinc supplements and medications are often given to children suffering from recurrent diarrhoea, respiratory symptoms, and chest infections such as pneumonia. Low zinc levels can also reduce appetite and supplements help with this. Those who are not receiving adequate zinc from their diet may require supplements or medication like zinc sulphate and zinc gluconate chemicals, when advised by a healthcare professional. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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