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The geographical distribution of underweight children in Africa

Maarten Nubé1, Benjamin G J S Sonneveld

  • 1Centre for World Food Studies (SOW-VU), Vrije Universiteit, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands. m.nube@sow.vu.nl

Bulletin of the World Health Organization
|November 12, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Geographical patterns of underweight children in Africa reveal distinct regional variations. Addressing childhood malnutrition requires considering cross-border characteristics and interactions.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Pediatrics
  • Nutrition Science

Background:

  • Childhood underweight remains a significant public health concern in Africa.
  • Understanding geographical distribution is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To map geographical patterns of underweight children across Africa.
  • To analyze prevalence and headcounts at a subnational level.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized large-scale, nationally representative nutrition surveys.
  • Employed Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) and Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS).
  • Data analyzed at national and subnational levels.

Main Results:

  • Identified distinct geographical patterns of underweight children.
  • Linked underweight prevalence to agronomic conditions, climate, population density, and economic integration.
  • Observed patterns transcending national borders.

Conclusions:

  • Childhood underweight distribution is influenced by regional factors.
  • Interventions must consider regional characteristics and cross-border interactions.
  • Addressing malnutrition requires a holistic, geographically informed approach.
Abstract

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