This study reveals mixed progress in addressing undernutrition over the past 13 years. While childhood stunting has decreased, particularly in middle-income countries, low-income regions still face significant challenges with stunting and wasting, which remain critical public health issues. Alarmingly, 4.7% of children in low-income countries suffer from both conditions simultaneously, leading to a 4.8-fold increase in mortality risk. The study highlights that stunting and wasting often begin at birth and peak within the first six months of life. Despite a slow annual decline in global low birthweight prevalence, the prevalence of vitamin A and zinc deficiencies remains high, especially in Africa and South Asia. Among women, the prevalence of low body-mass index has halved in middle-income countries, yet short stature and anemia persist as major concerns. The study underscores the persistent social inequalities in undernutrition, emphasizing the need for multisectoral actions to accelerate progress, particularly in light of potential setbacks from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Journal Article