Temporal socio-economic inequalities in the double burden of malnutrition (DBM) among under-five Children: An analysis of within- and between-group disparities in 20 sub-Saharan African countries (2004–2024)
Background: The double burden of malnutrition (DBM) in sub-Saharan Africa is a pressing public health issue, particularly among children under five years old. DBM encompasses both undernutrition (stunting) and overnutrition (overweight) within the same population, often shaped by socio-economic disp...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
KeAi Communications Co., Ltd.
2025-01-01
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| Series: | Global Transitions |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589791825000209 |
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| Summary: | Background: The double burden of malnutrition (DBM) in sub-Saharan Africa is a pressing public health issue, particularly among children under five years old. DBM encompasses both undernutrition (stunting) and overnutrition (overweight) within the same population, often shaped by socio-economic disparities. Addressing DBM in early childhood is vital, as malnutrition can lead to long-term health, cognitive, and developmental challenges. Methods: Using nationally representative data from the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) across 20 sub-Saharan African countries, this study examines temporal socio-economic inequalities in DBM. Countries include Zimbabwe, Kenya, Nigeria, and Mozambique, among others. DBM was defined using anthropometric measures, while socio-economic status (SES) was categorized as poor, middle, or rich. Temporal trends were analyzed, and inequalities were quantified using Erreygers Normalized Concentration Indices (ENCI) and Theil indices to explore within- and between-group disparities by SES and urban/rural residence. Results: DBM prevalence across countries ranged from 0.2 % to 4.6 %. Declines were noted in Zimbabwe and Kenya. Socio-economic inequalities were significant, with overnutrition increasingly concentrated in wealthier households, while undernutrition remained prevalent among poorer populations. Theil index analyses revealed within-group disparities as the primary drivers of overall inequality, particularly in urban wealthier populations, though rural and low-SES groups also contributed significantly in countries like Senegal and Mali. Conclusion: DBM is still present in sub-Saharan Africa and is driven by socio-economic inequalities. Targeted interventions focusing on improving access to nutritious food, healthcare, and education for vulnerable populations, particularly in rural and low-SES groups, are essential to reduce malnutrition disparities. |
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| ISSN: | 2589-7918 |