This indicator measures the proportion of children under five years of age suffering from severe malnutrition, specifically focusing on those who exhibit wasting, defined as being more than three standard deviations below the median weight-for-height according to the WHO Child Growth Standards. Wasting reflects a critical
failure to meet nutritional needs, often due to acute shortages of food, disease, or health challenges, leading to
increased risk of mortality and long-term developmental issues. Tracking this percentage allows for a deeper understanding of health disparities and highlights regions where intervention is urgently needed. Addressing the underlying causes of wasting can significantly improve children’s health outcomes, fostering a healthier future generation.
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