4. Starvation and Malnutrition
Chronic food shortages plagued Japanese POW camps, with meals often consisting of watery rice and little else. Malnutrition was rampant, leading to weakness, disease, and death. Compared to German camps, where rations—while meager—were often more adequate, Japanese camps offered almost no relief. The constant hunger wore down bodies and spirits alike, leaving prisoners barely able to endure the harsh demands of forced labor.
