Summary
This large-scale pooled analysis draws on individual-level data from population-representative surveys across multiple countries to estimate the global burden of micronutrient deficiencies in preschool-aged children and women of reproductive age. Published in The Lancet Global Health in 2022, it provides granular prevalence estimates that are likely disaggregated by region and demographic subgroup, offering a more precise picture than prior aggregate analyses. The findings are relevant to global nutrition policy, food fortification strategies, and targeted supplementation programmes.
UK applicability
As a global study, the primary findings relate to low- and middle-income country contexts where deficiency burdens are highest; however, the methodology and regional estimates may inform UK international development policy and global health priorities, and selected findings may have relevance to at-risk subpopulations within the UK.
Key measures
Prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies (%; likely including serum ferritin, retinol, zinc, haemoglobin, and/or urinary iodine); disaggregated by region, country, age group, and sex
Outcomes reported
The study estimated the prevalence of key micronutrient deficiencies (likely including iron, vitamin A, zinc, and iodine) among preschool-aged children and women of reproductive age across multiple countries. Findings were pooled from nationally representative survey data to produce global and regional burden estimates.
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