A Multilevel Analysis of Factors Associated With Stunting in Children Less Than 2 years Using Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) 2017-18 of Punjab, Pakistan

Stunting is an important issue as it leads to many adverse consequences on children's health. Pakistan is in public health crisis due to higher stunting rates in children. World Health Organization entails the prevalence of stunting to be less than 2.5% in a healthy population, but every third child is stunted in Punjab (largest province of Pakistan by area and population). By using the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) Punjab, 2018 and employing multilevel logistic regression analyses, this study finds that children whose mothers are educated and have better access to drinking water and antenatal care have lower odds of stunting. Access to better and accessible health care, education especially of girls/women, and clean water can reduce stunting in children. The government needs to give special attention to these factors to help children grow healthy.

Automated summary

This study found that children in Punjab, Pakistan whose mothers are educated and have better access to drinking water and antenatal care are less likely to suffer from stunting. Therefore, improving children's health levels requires attention to factors such as healthcare, education, and clean water sources.