Understanding undernutrition and stunting in Malawi

Korinne and Jennifer next to a wound care site.

In Malawi, a landlocked country in southeast Africa, 70% of children are stunted. They suffer impaired growth and development from poor nutrition, repeated infection, and inadequate psychosocial stimulation.

In partnership with Naturally Africa Volunteers and Dr. Laura Wilson, Andrew Claffey, Jennifer George, and Korinne Thorne aimed to understand the multifaceted factors contributing to undernutrition in Malawi. They developed a needs assessment to better understand community priorities around nutrition, food security, sanitation, access to medical care, and likelihood of seeking treatment. The needs assesssment was shared with the Department of Health in Malawi for their input and approval. Focus groups and door to door surveys helped the team to understanding prevalent health issues and cultural aspects of health, nutrition, and agriculture.

Written by Jessica Scates

Students
Andrew Claffey, Jennifer George, and Korinne Thorne (Medicine)
Faculty Mentor
David Holmes (Family Medicine)
Country of Travel
Malawi
Dates of Travel
July 2018

Articles and Reflections

Undernutrition and stunting in Malawi
1/15/19
The developmental, economic, social, and medical impact of undernutrition is serious and lasting for individuals and their families. Around 45%, nearly half of deaths among children under 5 years of age are linked to undernutrition – primarily in low- and middle-income countries. Children and families suffering undernutrition face increased health care costs, reduced productivity, and slow economic growth – three things that perpetuate a cycle of poverty and ill health.

Understanding undernutrition and stunting in Malawi

Articles and Reflections

Community of Excellence in Global Health Equity