Marasmus is commonly represented by a shrunken, wasted appearance, loss of muscle mass, and subcutaneous fat mass in adult survivors, due to a deficiency in macronutrients and caloric intake (specifically protein) that impact development.

[5][6] Other long term effects of marasmus are the increased risks for pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction which leads to glucose intolerance and type 2 diabetes.

[10] Some of the features that are diagnosable in a physical exam are severe wasting and stunting, appearing abnormally thin.

[citation needed] Initially, the child is fed dried skim milk that has been mixed with boiled water.

[medical citation needed] Ultimately, marasmus can progress to the point of no return when the body's ability for protein synthesis is lost.

At this point, attempts to correct the disorder by giving food or protein become futile, and death is inevitable.

[citation needed] Nutritionally the best way to prevent marasmus is through a diverse and adequate diet.

Energy, protein, and micronutrient supplementation are vital to ensuring the mother and child are adequately nourished.

[12] In addition to nutrition, ensuring access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene are important in preventing childhood illness and diarrheal disease which can contribute to marasmus and other Severe acute malnutrition cases.

[13] It is important for the child or anyone at risk for marasmus to have access to primary care so they can treat these illnesses, prevent diarrheal diseases often associated with malnutrition and monitor growth.

Prevalence is higher in hospitalized children, especially ones with chronic illnesses, however, the exact incidence of nonfatal marasmus is not known.

Of the malnourished children population in the world, 80% live in Asia, 15% in Africa, and 5% in Latin America.

There exist screening tools and tests that can be used to help identify signs and symptoms of malnutrition in older adults.

Prevention may look like improving nutritional education and access, as well as eliminating poverty are ways to reduce the risks of developing these deficiencies.