Decoding Malnutrition Trends in India: A Comprehensive Analysis Using National Family Health Survey Data for Informed Strategies and Interventions

Abstract

Introduction: Despite the growth and development, in sectors, malnutrition continues to be a challenge that cannot be ignored. The current study is crafted with the primary objective of exploring the trends in malnutrition in India. It seeks to delve into both direct and indirect determinants, utilising data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) to gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of nutrition in the country. Methodology: The current study was conducted by reviewing the data of all NFHSs available on an online portal. The trend of malnutrition and its direct and indirect determinants were assessed. Results: The percentage of children under 5 years who are underweight (weight-for-age) is in decreasing trend from 42.7% (NFHS-2) to 32.1% (NFHS-5). Similarly, the percentage of children under 5 years who are stunted (height-for-age) and/or wasted (weight-for-height) shows decreasing trends. Whereas, the percentage of children under 5 years who are severely wasted (weight-for-height) is increasing trend. Notably, direct and indirect determinants show an improving trend in NFHS-5. Conclusion: Although many nutritional indicators such as underweight, stunting and wasting amongst children under 5 years of age show downward trends in India, the area of concern is the upward trend of indicators such as severely wasted (weight-for-height). Direct and indirect determinants for the nutritional indicators such as proper IYCF practices, routine immunisation and anaemia amongst women need to be strengthened, which can help in further improvement in the nutritional status of children below 5 years.