| Trends in socioeconomic inequalities in child undernutrition: Evidence from Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (2003 - 2013) |
| Authors: |
Blessing J. Akombi, Kingsley E. Agho, Andre M. Renzaho, John J. Hall, and Dafna R. Merom |
| Source: |
PLOS ONE , 14(2): e0211883; DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0211883 |
| Topic(s): |
Child health
Health equity
Inequality
Nutrition
|
| Country: |
Africa
Nigeria
|
| Published: |
FEB 2019 |
| Abstract: |
OBJECTIVE:The aim of this study was to examine the trend in socioeconomic inequalities in child undernutrition in Nigeria. METHODS:The study analysed cross-sectional data from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 2003 to 2013. The outcome variables were stunting, wasting and underweight among children under-five years. The magnitude of child undernutrition in Nigeria was estimated via a concentration index, and the socioeconomic factors contributing to child undernutrition over time were determined using the decomposition method. RESULTS:The concentration index showed an increase in childhood wasting and underweight in Nigeria over time. The socioeconomic factors contributing to the increase in child undernutrition were: child's age (0-23 months), maternal education (no education), household wealth index (poorest household), type of residence (rural) and geopolitical zone (North East, North West). CONCLUSIONS:To address child undernutrition, there is a need to improve maternal education and adopt effective social protection policies especially in rural communities in Nigeria. |
| Web: |
14(2):e0211883 DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0211883 |
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