Undernutrition before two years in Algeria: Repeated cross-sectional analyses (2012-13 to 2018-19)
View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Childhood undernutrition in Algeria remains a concern, with stunting decreasing but wasting and underweight showing little change. Key factors like maternal BMI and education need addressing for better child nutrition outcomes.
Area Of Science
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
- Nutrition Science
Background
- Algeria faces persistent childhood undernutrition, with stunting affecting nearly 12% of children under five in 2022.
- Despite progress, specific undernutrition indicators require continued focus.
Purpose Of The Study
- To evaluate the prevalence of stunting, wasting, and underweight in Algerian children aged 0-23 months.
- To identify variables associated with these undernutrition indicators between 2013 and 2019.
Main Methods
- Utilized pooled data from Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) for 2012-13 and 2018-19.
- Employed univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses to determine associations.
Main Results
- Stunting prevalence decreased significantly, while wasting and underweight showed no significant reductions.
- Overall prevalence in 2019: stunting 10.1%, wasting 5.4%, underweight 3.6%.
- Associated factors included child age, birth size, household wealth, maternal BMI, maternal education, and antenatal care (ANC) visits.
Conclusions
- A comprehensive, community-centered approach is crucial for long-term improvements in child nutrition.
- Addressing high maternal BMI, low maternal education, and infrequent ANC visits is vital.
- These interventions can help Algeria achieve the UN's malnutrition eradication goals.
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