0
0
May 31, 2025
A groundbreaking new study has revealed that malnutrition among infants under six months old is a far more widespread and urgent problem than previously understood, with over 10 million infants estimated to be underweight across low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
The research, published in BMJ Global Health and led by experts from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) and the Emergency Nutrition Network (ENN), analyzed data from more than 50,000 infants under six months collected through Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) in 56 countries. The study found that:
-
17.4% of infants were clinically underweight
-
15.5% showed signs of wasting (too thin for their length)
-
19.9% were stunted (too short for their age)
-
15% were underweight at birth
When extrapolated to all LMICs, these percentages translate to approximately:
-
10.3 million underweight infants
-
9.2 million wasted infants
-
11.8 million stunted infants
-
8.9 million born with low birth weight
A Silent and Overlooked Crisis
Dr. Marko Kerac, lead author and Clinical Associate Professor at LSHTM, emphasized the gravity of the situation:
“Malnutrition is responsible for around 45% of child deaths globally. In 2022, undernutrition accounted for 2.3 million child deaths—over 6,000 every day. For context, that’s the equivalent of 18 commercial airliners crashing daily. Yet, this tragedy remains largely silent and ignored.”
Marie McGrath, Technical Director at ENN and co-author, highlighted the human cost behind the statistics:
“Big numbers sometimes dehumanize. Behind every survey is a personal tragedy—a baby suffering, families devastated. As a society, we cannot be complacent about babies at increased risk of death in their first months of life.”
The Importance of National Health Data
The study underscores the importance of national datasets like the DHS, which have been paused amid funding cuts. Researchers warn that without regular data collection, it will be impossible to track progress or hold governments accountable for addressing malnutrition.
The findings also support the World Health Organization’s recent update to malnutrition guidelines, which now include “underweight” as a key criterion for providing supportive nutrition and health care to infants under six months.
Call to Action
Experts urge governments and health organizations to invest directly in health services, equipment, and training to identify and manage malnutrition in infants. Growth monitoring, close follow-up for at-risk babies, and consistent use of underweight as an indicator are recommended strategies.
“Let’s reinvest, not reinvent,” said McGrath. “Using one indicator—underweight—is simpler for health workers and consistent across communities. Let’s work together to assess, appraise, and act.”
Disclaimer:
This article is based on a summary of findings from a recent study published in BMJ Global Health and reported by MedicalXpress. The information provided here is for general awareness and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For specific concerns about infant nutrition or health, please consult a qualified healthcare provider.
