JOURNAL OF Mother and Child Health Concerns
Vol. 5 No. 4 (2026): July Edition 2026

Methylmercury exposure and child malnutrition: Mechanistic pathways and epidemiological evidence - A narrative review

Davod Boanarges Hasudungan Sinaga (Universitas Indonesia Mandiri)
ST Austa Nusra (Universitas Indonesia Mandiri)
Waisaktini Margareth Malau (Universitas Indonesia Mandiri)
Prasita Ayu Widyaningtias (Universitas Indonesia Mandiri)
Roma Yuliana (Universitas Indonesia Mandiri)
Lastrie Asrya (Universitas Indonesia Mandiri)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Jul 2026

Abstract

Background: Mercury exposure has emerged as a public health concern that may contribute to impaired nutritional status among children, particularly in developing countries where environmental contamination remains prevalent. Purpose: To review the biological mechanisms and epidemiological evidence regarding the effects of methylmercury exposure on children's nutritional status. Method: A narrative review was conducted by synthesizing evidence from published studies on methylmercury exposure and child nutrition, focusing on gastrointestinal, metabolic, and endocrine mechanisms as well as epidemiological findings from various countries. Results: Methylmercury disrupts nutrient absorption, interferes with essential mineral metabolism, and alters endocrine function. Epidemiological studies consistently demonstrate associations between mercury exposure and stunting, anemia, impaired growth, and abnormal body mass index trajectories among children. Conclusion: Mercury exposure negatively affects children's nutritional status through multiple biological pathways. Further prospective studies are required to establish causality and inform preventive public health strategies.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

mchc

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions Nursing Public Health

Description

Berisi kumpulan karya ilmiah dari peneliti diberbagai perguruan tinggi di Indonesia, khususnya di bidang kesehatan ibu dan anak yang berdasarkan kepada kebutuhan pasien secara total meliputi: kebutuhan fisik, emosi, sosial, ekonomi dan spiritual. Adapun penelitiannya mencakup 4 aspek pokok, yakni: ...