The article discusses the classification and definition of protein-calorie malnutrition, emphasizing the need for an accepted system to accurately assess and prevent malnutrition. The Eighth Joint Expert Committee on Nutrition of FAO and WHO highlighted the importance of a consistent classification to understand the prevalence and patterns of malnutrition globally. Different classifications are needed for various purposes, such as distinguishing severe malnutrition in hospitalized children versus community-based studies. Weight for age and height for age are commonly used measures, but weight for height is considered more accurate as it is independent of age and provides information about body proportions. The article also discusses the importance of height measurements in assessing the duration of malnutrition. It suggests that a 4x4 classification based on degrees of malnutrition and retardation could be useful, with 16 cells representing different categories. However, the classification must be based on clear criteria and agreed upon by experts to ensure consistency and comparability across different regions. The article also addresses the classification of severe forms of protein-calorie malnutrition, noting that different clinical features are associated with kwashiorkor and marasmus. A scoring system was proposed, but it was found that oedema is a key indicator for kwashiorkor. The Wellcome classification is suggested for severe cases, with criteria based on weight and the presence of oedema. The article concludes that agreement on the classification of protein-calorie malnutrition is essential for studies of prevalence and the planning of preventive measures. Two classifications are needed: one for community studies and one for severe cases. The Wellcome system is proposed for severe cases, with additional data recorded to ensure accuracy. International comparisons using these methods would be valuable in understanding the causes of different syndromes.The article discusses the classification and definition of protein-calorie malnutrition, emphasizing the need for an accepted system to accurately assess and prevent malnutrition. The Eighth Joint Expert Committee on Nutrition of FAO and WHO highlighted the importance of a consistent classification to understand the prevalence and patterns of malnutrition globally. Different classifications are needed for various purposes, such as distinguishing severe malnutrition in hospitalized children versus community-based studies. Weight for age and height for age are commonly used measures, but weight for height is considered more accurate as it is independent of age and provides information about body proportions. The article also discusses the importance of height measurements in assessing the duration of malnutrition. It suggests that a 4x4 classification based on degrees of malnutrition and retardation could be useful, with 16 cells representing different categories. However, the classification must be based on clear criteria and agreed upon by experts to ensure consistency and comparability across different regions. The article also addresses the classification of severe forms of protein-calorie malnutrition, noting that different clinical features are associated with kwashiorkor and marasmus. A scoring system was proposed, but it was found that oedema is a key indicator for kwashiorkor. The Wellcome classification is suggested for severe cases, with criteria based on weight and the presence of oedema. The article concludes that agreement on the classification of protein-calorie malnutrition is essential for studies of prevalence and the planning of preventive measures. Two classifications are needed: one for community studies and one for severe cases. The Wellcome system is proposed for severe cases, with additional data recorded to ensure accuracy. International comparisons using these methods would be valuable in understanding the causes of different syndromes.