The geographical distribution of underweight children in Africa
Nubé, M.; Sonneveld, B.G.J.S.
Bulletin of the World Health Organization 83(10): 764-770
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-9686 PMID: 16283053 Document Number: 256943
Objective: To study the geographical patterns of underweight children in Africa by combining information on prevalence with headcounts at a subnational level between 1987 and 2003. Methods: Large-scale, nationally representative nutrition surveys, particularly the Demographic and Health Surveys and the Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys, which have been designed, analysed and presented according to largely similar protocols, and which report at the national and subnational levels, were used. Findings: There were distinct geographical patterns in the occurrence of underweight children, which could be linked to factors such as agronomic and climatic conditions, population density and economic integration. Conclusion: The patterns of underweight children cross national borders, suggesting that regional characteristics and interactions need to be considered when addressing malnutrition.