Malnutrition Among Women of Reproductive Age in South Asia: Scope, Determinants, and Interventions

Abstract

This study discusses the complex problem of malnutrition among women aged 15–49 years in a region characterized by pronounced socio-economic disparity and gender inequity: South Asia. Malnutrition‐which can involve both under and over nutrition, including micronutrient deficiency, as well as overweight and obesity has serious consequences for maternal morbidity, the health of the pregnancy, and future generations. We draw from demographic and health surveys (DHS), peer-reviewed literature, and program evaluations and conduct a narrative review of the prevalence of forms of malnutrition, the role of social, economic, and cultural underlying determinants, and current public health activities, which have been carried out by governments, NGOs, and international organizations. Despite interventions including food supple-mentation, micronutrient fortification, behavior change communication and community nutrition education some obstacles still remain. These include deep seeded gender norms, programs not reaching to rural oft marginalized communities, monitors and data collection systems not uniformly applied, and fragmented policies. The paper presents priority areas for action and a strategic response that includes strengthening multi-sectoral approaches; increasing gender-sensitive community interaction; scaling up fortified food interventions; and developing strong surveillance systems. Key components to achieving progress in women of reproductive age include the enhancement of the primary health care system, more empowered women and advances in the science of nutrition. This review adds to the debate on how to accomplish nutrition targets/Sustainable Development Goals in South Asia through feasible pathways to improve maternal and child health.