This indicator reflects the
prevalence of chronic malnutrition among children under five, specifically focusing on those experiencing stunting, which is determined by their height-for-age measurement. It highlights the percentage of young children who fall below two standard deviations from the median on the WHO Child Growth Standards,
indicating significant growth deficiencies linked to inadequate nutrition, poor health, or adverse environmental factors. The data not only captures those below -2 SD but includes a broader context by acknowledging the more severe cases under -3 SD. Understanding the level of stunting within a population is critical, as it can predispose individuals to ongoing health problems, hinder cognitive development, and perpetuate cycles of poverty and malnutrition in future generations. Comprehensive evaluation of such indicators is key to informing effective public health strategies and interventions.
Source: