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Failure to Thrive — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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EasyCommunity & Indigenous HealthFailure to ThriveRACP Paediatrics

In the assessment of failure to thrive in an Aboriginal child from a remote community, which social determinant of health is most likely to contribute to poor nutritional status?

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Correct answer: D — Food insecurity due to high cost and limited availability of fresh food in remote stores

Food insecurity is a major driver of childhood malnutrition and failure to thrive in remote Aboriginal communities. The high cost of healthy food (3–5x metropolitan prices), limited variety, and reliance on store-bought processed foods contribute to poor nutrition. Addressing food insecurity requires a multisectoral approach including community-level interventions, government policy, and culturally safe clinical care.

Reference: NHMRC – 2024 – Dietary Guidelines for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples