Double burden of malnutrition
Definition
The double burden of malnutrition is defined by the coexistence of a high prevalence of undernutrition and overweight in at least one population group. This is a categorical indicator, classified as: 0 - absence of double burden of malnutrition (DBM); 1 - presence of undernutrition combined with a prevalence of overweight greater than 20%; 3 - presence of undernutrition combined with a prevalence of overweight greater than 30%; and 4 - presence of undernutrition and a prevalence of overweight greater than 40%. The presence of undernutrition in the population is defined as: wasting >15% or stunting >30% in children under 5 years of age, or a prevalence of low weight in women >20%.
Interpretation
The double burden of malnutrition highlights a food system where the unequal distribution of resources leads to undernutrition in some population groups and overweight in others. In Brazil, vulnerable populations may simultaneously experience nutritional deficits and increasing obesity, especially in contexts of food insecurity.
Data source
Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) — National Health Survey (PNS): https://www.ibge.gov.br/estatisticas/sociais/saude/9160-pesquisa-nacional-de-saude.html/ Brazilian National Survey of Child Nutrition (ENANI) — 2019: https://enani.nutricao.ufrj.br/
| Level | Periodicity |
|---|---|
| Macro-regional and state level | 6 years/5 years |