article · PLoS ONE
Micronutrient deficiency remains a severe challenge in developing nations, yet detailed geographical information on dietary intake has been limited. This research analysed the spatial distribution and determinants of micronutrient-rich food consumption among Ethiopian children aged 6 to 23 months using 2016 Demographic and Health Survey data covering 2,562 weighted children. Overall, 69 percent consumed foods rich in micronutrients, though consumption varied significantly across the country. Spatial clustering was prominent in Addis Ababa, Dire Dawa, Harari, parts of Benishangul, and the Gambella region. Children within primary clusters were 29 percent more likely to consume these nutrient-rich foods than those outside. Significant predictors influencing consumption across locations included higher household wealth, older child age between 13 and 23 months, maternal employment, and the utilisation of antenatal care.
Micronutrient deficiencies hinder early childhood development and overall health. By mapping the exact geographical areas and identifying the socioeconomic drivers that influence child nutrition, health organisations and policymakers can direct nutritional interventions, resources, and educational campaigns to the communities that need them most.
The abstract does not indicate a commercialisation pathway, as it focuses on epidemiological analysis and recommendations for public health planners and policymakers.
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INTRODUCTION: Micronutrient (MN) deficiency is a major global health concern, especially in developing countries like Ethiopia. However, there is a lack of comprehensive monitoring and information regarding MN intake status. This study aimed to assess the spatial distribution and factors influencing the intake of MN-rich foods among children aged 6-23 months in Ethiopia. METHODS: This study utilized the Ethiopian 2016 Demographic and Health Survey dataset with 2562 weighted children. The Bernoulli model was applied using Kuldorff's SaTScan version 9.6 software. The spatial distributions of MN-rich food intake were visualized using ArcGIS pro version 3.0 software. Model comparison was conducted using log likelihood ratio and corrected Akakie Information Criteria. A multi-scale geographical weighted regression analysis was performed using MGWR version 2.0 software. A P-value threshold of less than 0.05 was used to identify spatially significant predictors. RESULTS: Overall, 69% (95% CI: 60.87, 77.43) of children aged 6-23 months in Ethiopia were found to have consumed foods rich in MN. The intake of these nutrient-rich foods exhibited significant clustering in specific regions, including Addis Ababa, Dire Dawa, Harari, certain parts of Benishangul, and the Gambella region. Spatial scan statistics analysis identified a total of 65 primary spatial clusters. Children residing within the primary clusters were found to be 29% more likely to have an intake of foods rich in MN compared to those living outside the identified clusters (RR = 1.29, LLR = 25.34, P < 0.001). Key spatially significant predictors included higher household wealth status; children aged 13-23 months, the presence of antenatal care, and mothers with any job. CONCLUSION: The consumption of foods rich in MN in Ethiopia displayed non-random spatial patterns. To tackle the problem of inadequate intake of these nutritious foods and address the burden of MN deficiency among children aged 6-23 months, it is essential for policymakers and health planners to implement targeted nutrition interventions in the identified areas and factors.
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DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0321113
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