Nutritional deficiencies in low-sociodemographic-index countries: a population-based study

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Nutritional Epidemiology
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• Sociodemographic factors significantly influence nutritional deficiency burdens.
• Understanding trends in low-sociodemographic index (SDI) countries is crucial for targeted interventions.
• Nutritional deficiencies pose a significant global health challenge, particularly in vulnerable populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the burden of nutritional deficiency by sex and age in low-sociodemographic index (SDI) countries.
• To analyze trends in nutritional deficiency incidence and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) from 1990 to 2019.
• To identify specific deficiencies and demographic groups most affected.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the methodology of the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2019.
• Calculated estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) to assess trends in age-standardized rates.
• Analyzed incidence and DALY rates for overall nutritional deficiency and its subcategories.

Main Results:

• Age-standardized incidence and DALY rates of nutritional deficiency decreased from 1990 to 2019 (EAPCs: -0.90 and -3.20, respectively).
• Vitamin A deficiency had the highest incidence rate, while protein-energy malnutrition had the highest DALY rate in 2019.
• Children aged 1-4 years exhibited the highest incidence and DALY rates for overall nutritional deficiency and iron deficiency.

Conclusions:

• Significant declines in nutritional deficiency rates were observed, with notable improvements in vitamin A deficiency and protein-energy malnutrition.
• Targeted interventions for young children (1-4 years) are essential to address persistent nutritional and iron deficiencies.
• Continued monitoring and research in low-SDI countries are necessary to combat nutritional deficiencies effectively.