Consistent improvement in the nutritional status of Colombian children between 1965 and 1989

Abstract

Three national anthropometric surveys carried out in Colombia in 1965-1966, 1977-1980, and 1986-1989 provide a reasonably standardized basis for comparing the nutritional status of infants and young children in those years. That comparison, presented here together with appropriate socioeconomic data, indicates marked reduction of malnutrition paralleling strong socioeconomic gains.

PIP: Researchers analyzed data from 3 countrywide health surveys (1965-1966, 1977-1980, and 1986-1989) in Colombia to examine the nutritional status of infants and young children in those years. They also compared these trends in nutritional status with those of socioeconomic development. In 1965-1966, the prevalence of overall childhood malnutrition stood at 21.1% and of stunting at 31.9%. Wasting was 3.9%, mainly affecting 6-23 month old children. Overall malnutrition and stunting fell to 16.8% (20% reduction) and 22.4% (30% reduction) respectively by 1977-1980. Yet wasting rose to 4.9% between the 2 surveys. By 1986-1989, overall malnutrition, stunting, and wasting decreased to 10.1%, 16.6%, and 2.9% respectively. Despite the improvements in overall malnutrition, children 2 years old remained at highest risk of malnutrition, especially protein energy malnutrition. In the 1960s and 1970s, the economy grew evenly with simultaneous public investment in the social sector and the nation's infrastructure. It even grew somewhat in the 1980s. During this period, the country transformed from a predominantly agricultural society to an urban residents and 76% of rural residents) had access to potable water. Further, in 1990, 99% of urban households had electricity, 95% a piped water supply, and 89% a sewerage system. These corresponding figures for rural households were 71%, 43%, and 17%. Besides, in this time period, Colombia improved its initial unequal distribution of income. For example, between 1971-1978, poverty fell 2.9%/year. Moreover Colombia experienced a rapid demographic transition with considerable declines in fertility and population growth. 1 reason for this transition was increased education for women and access to jobs. Further improvements in health care and access to it have also occurred.