Which of the following is likely a cause of marasmus?

Marasmus is a form of severe malnutrition characterized by energy deficiency, which typically arises from a prolonged lack of caloric intake, particularly from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. When considering the options provided, the most likely cause of marasmus in this context is related to medical conditions that significantly impact nutrient absorption and intake.

Chemotherapy can lead to a variety of side effects that may significantly reduce a person's ability to consume adequate nutrition, including nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. These effects can result in reduced food intake and subsequently contribute to energy deficiencies that could lead to conditions like marasmus. Furthermore, chemotherapy can also affect nutrient absorption in already malnourished individuals, exacerbating the risk of developing malnutrition if their caloric needs are not met.

In contrast, the other options primarily involve states that are less likely to lead to marasmus. Excessive carbohydrate intake and overeating generally contribute to weight gain and could lead to obesity rather than malnutrition. Inadequate fat intake alone is unlikely to lead to marasmus, as it is the overall caloric deficiency, rather than the lack of individual macronutrient, that is key to the condition. Thus, the context of chemotherapy aligns with the physiological impact that could lead to mar