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Infant malnutrition and obesity in three population-based birth cohort studies in Southern Brazil: trends and

Aluísio J D Barros1, Cesar G Victora, Iná S Santos

  • 1Programa de Pós-graduação em Epidemiologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brasil. abarros.epi@gmail.com

Cadernos De Saude Publica
|September 18, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Childhood malnutrition decreased, but obesity increased across three Brazilian birth cohorts (1982-2004). While stunting reduced, particularly in low-income families, social disparities persist, necessitating continued efforts against both malnutrition and rising overweight prevalence.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Pediatrics
  • Nutritional Epidemiology

Background:

  • Childhood malnutrition and overweight are significant global health concerns.
  • Understanding long-term trends in nutritional status is crucial for effective public health interventions.
  • Socioeconomic factors play a critical role in child nutrition outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the evolution of nutritional deficits and overweight in one-year-old children across three birth cohorts in Pelotas, Brazil (1982, 1993, 2004).
  • To analyze trends in anthropometric deficits and overweight prevalence over three decades.
  • To investigate the association between nutritional status and socioeconomic factors.

Main Methods:

  • Longitudinal study of three birth cohorts (1982, 1993, 2004) in Pelotas, Southern Brazil.
  • Anthropometric measurements (weight, length) and maternal interviews were conducted.
  • Nutritional deficits and overweight were assessed using NCHS and WHO growth standards.

Main Results:

  • Prevalence of nutritional deficits declined between 1982 and 1993, then stabilized. Overall decrease in deficits observed across the period.
  • Obesity prevalence increased significantly across all cohorts and social strata.
  • Stunting was strongly associated with family income; only the lowest income group showed significant stunting reduction.

Conclusions:

  • While overall nutritional deficits decreased, significant social inequalities persist.
  • Rising overweight prevalence necessitates concurrent public health strategies alongside malnutrition control.
  • Targeted interventions are crucial for vulnerable populations to address persistent social differentials in child nutrition.

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