Population-Level Impact of Risk Factors on Stunting Among Children Under Five in Sub-Saharan Africa (2015-2022).

Abstract

Aim: To identify the correlates of stunting and investigate their population-level impacts among children under 5 years in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods: Data from 179 572 children under five were included from nationally representative surveys conducted across 24 sub-Saharan African countries (2015-2022). Multivariable logistic regression models and population-level impacts of risk factors were estimated to highlight their contributions to stunting prevalence across the study regions.

Results: Stunting prevalence ranged from 18% to 54%, with rates exceeding 50% in Burundi. Lack of basic household amenities was consistently associated with stunting, accounting for 24%-57% of cases across regions. Limited access to mass media further contributed to stunting rates, highlighting the role of education and awareness in preventing malnutrition. Maternal characteristics, such as lack of education and health insurance, were also significant risk factors, with adjusted odds ratios (aORs) ranging from 1.44 to 2.24.

Conclusion: Socio-economic disparities are key risk factors for stunting in sub-Saharan Africa. These factors were statistically associated with a substantial proportion of stunting cases in high-prevalence regions. Targeted interventions to reduce inequalities, improve maternal education and expand essential services access are vital to achieving global nutrition targets, including the Sustainable Development Goal of reducing child stunting by 40% by 2025.