Association Between Food Affordability And Stunted Growth In Children Under Five Year

Abstract

Stunted growth is a major public health issue, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where nutritious food remains unaffordable for most households. In 2021, 42.2% of the global population could not afford a healthy diet, rising to 86.1% in low-income countries (FAO et al., 2023). Stunting, defined as a height-for-age more than two standard deviations below the WHO reference, Globally, stunting affects 149 million children under the age of five, with 55% of these children residing in Asia with 38% of Pakistani children moderately stunted (PDHS, 2017–18). This study investigates the link between food affordability and stunting in Pakistan using national-level data from the Food System Dashboard. A mixed-methods approach combined quantitative indicators such as the cost of nutritious diets, affordability ratios, and food insecurity prevalence with qualitative evidence from existing literature. Results show that while caloric needs are generally met through cheap starchy staples, the high cost of nutrient-dense foods contributes to chronic malnutrition. Addressing stunting requires multi-sectoral strategies, including subsidies for diverse diets, improved market access, sanitation, and integrated nutrition programs. Future research should focus on regional disparities and policy effectiveness in reducing stunting. The causes of stunting are multifaceted, deeply rooted in socio-economic and political factors. Family resources, access to healthcare, and political stability all play crucial roles in determining whether a child has the opportunity to grow and develop properly. Despite global efforts to reduce stunting, progress has been uneven. Some countries, such as Brazil and China, have made rapid progress in reducing stunting rates, while others, including Pakistan, have seen stunting rates rise. If current trends continue, by 2030, the number of stunted children under five is projected to be 131 million, highlighting the urgent need for accelerated interventions to meet global health targets and ensure children everywhere have access to the nutrition they need for healthy development.