Prevalence of malnutrition of age group in different communities in Costa Rica, 1997–2014

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the prevalence of nutritional problems of family members divided by age group in different communities in Costa Rica from 1997 to 2014. Methods: The paper analyzed the data collected by students from the school of nutrition of the University of Costa Rica from 1997 to 2014. Weight and height data of all members were collected from selected families in each community. The analysis of data adopts the growth criteria and critical points recommended by the World Health Organization. Results: The data of 25 surveys conducted in the past 17 years were reported. With the increasing age, the problems of deficiency in weight and height decreased among young people (<20 years old), and the proportion of individuals who are overweight or at risk of overweight increased. In adults, the same phenomenon occurs in weight gain. Among the elderly, the proportion of underweight people decreased. Discussion: Compare the information submitted by other publications reporting similar results and comment on the causes and consequences of overweight. Conclusion: During this period, the prevalence of weight and height defects in minors decreased; in addition, the prevalence of overweight is increasing in all age groups.