This indicator measures the proportion of children under the age of five who are considered underweight, classified as having z-scores below -3 standard deviations from the median of the WHO Child Growth Standards. Such a classification highlights a severe level of malnutrition, which can lead to long-term adverse effects on physical and cognitive development. Tracking this percentage reveals critical insights into the nutritional status and health of vulnerable populations, guiding interventions and policy decisions aimed at combating childhood malnutrition. Additionally, it underscores the urgent need for targeted nutritional programs to ameliorate the circumstances of at-risk children, fostering healthier future generations.
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