Exploring the Determinants of Malnutrition in 2–5 Year Iranian Children Using Structural Equation Modeling: National Food and Nutrition Surveillance

By:
Samira Rabiei, Samira Ebrahimof, Hamid Rasekhi, Maryam Amini, Bahareh Nikooyeh, Tirang R. Neyestani​
Date:
2024
Resource type:
Blogs/news/opinion
Link:

This study investigates the prevalence and factors contributing to malnutrition among 2–5-year-old children in eight food-insecure provinces of Iran. Using structural equation modeling (SEM), researchers analyzed socioeconomic status (SES), dietary diversity, and parental education as key determinants. Results showed that 10.1% of children were stunted, 8.4% were wasted, and 8.1% were underweight, with rural children at a higher risk of stunting. Higher SES positively influenced children's nutritional status, and fathers' education indirectly impacted malnutrition through SES and dietary diversity.

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