Marasmus is a disease, that is, a chronic state of energy-protein malnutrition with inadequate intake. This consists of wasting fat, muscle and other body tissues. It occurs mostly in children aged 5 years and younger who live in high-poverty areas. Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Chronic diarrhea will cause the victim to become extremely dehydrated, making them feel fatigued and weak. The victim may experience extreme discomfort and loss of consciousness due to malnutrition. More severe symptoms can cause loss of skin tissue, growth retardation of the victim under weight and a lower than normal height. Paralysis of the legs will cause the victim to lose muscle function or lose any sensation in that area. Organ failure is also a symptom because the victim's organs are not receiving the adequate vitamins and proteins they need to function properly. Victims of marasmus are highly vulnerable to infections especially of the skin, mouth and lungs. Marasmus is most susceptible to infants and children under 5 years old, because at such a young age children need proper nutrition and energy to increase their growth. Children living in low poverty and in developing countries such as South America, Africa and South Asia are the most vulnerable. In these areas, it is difficult to obtain the adequate food and nutrients that children need due to the inability to afford food and the limited availability of clean, sanitized water. There have been cases of Marasmus in the United States but it is very rare compared to cases that occur in other countries. Marasmus can occur in adults, but it is rare and is more likely to occur in children because children are at a stage in human life where they find paper animals to use to make protein. Conclusions Marasmus is a serious malnutrition disease that affects children aged 5 years and younger. This disease is the loss of fat, muscle and skin tissue that can be fatal if not treated early enough. The child may suffer from growth problems including weight and height, as well as have a lower IQ and some problems with normal behavioral functions. More serious problems can result in paralysis of the legs, loss of bladder and bowel function, a weakened immune system that can make the child more susceptible to infections, and organ failure. Marasmus can occur anywhere in the world where food is limited, but it is most common in Africa, South America and Asia. Living in these areas will increase the rate of death from marasmus. There is little treatment available and knowledge of the disease is low.