Percentage of Children Underweight
Child underweight prevalence is a critical indicator of malnutrition, reflecting the percentage of children with insufficient weight for their age. This dataset ranks countries based on underweight prevalence, highlighting regions most affected and the need for targeted nutrition interventions.
Which countries have the highest prevalence of underweight children?
Yemen leads with 39.9% of children underweight, followed by India (33.4%) and Sudan (33%). These high rates indicate severe malnutrition and food insecurity challenges in these regions.
Top 10 countries with the highest child underweight prevalence
The following countries have the highest percentages of underweight children:
1. Yemen – 39.9%
2. India – 33.4%
3. Sudan – 33%
4. Niger – 31.3%
5. Chad – 29.2%
6. Burundi – 27%
7. Madagascar – 26.4%
8. Nepal – 24.4%
9. Cambodia – 24.1%
10. DR Congo and Pakistan – 23.1%
These nations require urgent nutritional programs and healthcare interventions to combat underweight prevalence among children.
Which countries have the lowest prevalence of underweight children?
Countries such as Australia and Greece report the lowest prevalence rates, at just 0.2%, followed by Germany and Chile (0.5%). These nations benefit from strong healthcare systems, adequate food availability, and effective public health initiatives.
What factors contribute to high underweight prevalence in children?
Key factors include poverty, food insecurity, inadequate maternal nutrition, limited access to healthcare, and insufficient dietary diversity. Conflict and displacement further exacerbate malnutrition in many regions.
How does underweight prevalence impact child health and development?
Underweight children are more vulnerable to infections, developmental delays, and poor academic performance. Chronic malnutrition weakens immune systems and increases mortality risks, particularly in low-resource settings.
What strategies can reduce child underweight prevalence?
Strategies include improving maternal and child nutrition through education, access to healthcare, and social safety nets. Promoting breastfeeding, providing micronutrient supplements, and addressing food insecurity are also essential steps toward reducing underweight prevalence.
What global trends are evident in child underweight prevalence?
Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia exhibit the highest prevalence of underweight children, reflecting widespread poverty and malnutrition. In contrast, developed nations with robust food systems and healthcare infrastructure report minimal prevalence, highlighting global disparities in child health and nutrition.
