A Multilevel Analysis of Factors Associated with Stunting in Children Less than 2 Years Using Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) 2017-18 of Punjab, Pakistan

Y

12

Foreign Countries; Child Development; Child Health; Mothers; Parent Background; Educational Attainment; Water; Prenatal Care; Access to Health Care; Access to Education; Females; Water Pollution; Body Weight; Body Height; Infants; Toddlers; Nutrition; Place of Residence; Sanitation

10.1177/21582440221096127

2158-2440

Stunting is an important issue as it leads to many adverse consequences on children's health. Pakistan is in public health crisis due to higher stunting rates in children. World Health Organization entails the prevalence of stunting to be less than 2.5% in a healthy population, but every third child is stunted in Punjab (largest province of Pakistan by area and population). By using the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) Punjab, 2018 and employing multilevel logistic regression analyses, this study finds that children whose mothers are educated and have better access to drinking water and antenatal care have lower odds of stunting. Access to better and accessible health care, education especially of girls/women, and clean water can reduce stunting in children. The government needs to give special attention to these factors to help children grow healthy.

As Provided

2022

EJ1351248