The prevalence of underweight children under five in 2023 was highest in Niger at 33.3%, followed by Burundi at 27.5%, and Mauritania at 20.1%. Countries like Kuwait, Jamaica, and Peru showed relatively low rates, with Peru at 2%. Year-on-year, Niger experienced a reduction of 2.35%, while Chad and Uganda saw declines of 5.41% and 5.19%, respectively. In contrast, Mauritania and Jamaica experienced mild increases. Over the last five years, countries have seen varied trends, indicating both progress and challenges in addressing undernutrition.
Future trends to watch include advancements in nutritional programs in high-prevalence regions and continued economic impacts on food security. Monitoring policy implementations and international aid efforts will be critical in tackling underweight prevalence globally.
Top countries in Prevalence of Underweight by Country
| # | 10 Countries | Percent of Children Under 5 | Last Year | YoY | 5-years CAGR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Niger | 33.3 | 2023 | -3.76% | -2.35% | View data |
| 2 | 2 Burundi | 27.5 | 2023 | -0.36% | -1.46% | View data |
| 3 | 3 Mauritania | 20.1 | 2023 | -10.27% | +0.92% | View data |
| 4 | 4 Chad | 18.7 | 2023 | -1.06% | -5.41% | View data |
| 5 | 5 Nepal | 18.7 | 2022 | View data | ||
| 6 | 6 Mali | 18.2 | 2023 | -1.62% | -0.43% | View data |
| 7 | 7 Cambodia | 16.3 | 2021 | View data | ||
| 8 | 8 Guatemala | 14.4 | 2021 | View data | ||
| 9 | 9 Ivory Coast | 14 | 2021 | +1.81% | View data | |
| 10 | 10 Burkina Faso | 13.9 | 2023 | -2.8% | -4.72% | View data |