Apr 26 2024BMJ Living at higher altitudes in India is linked to an increased risk of stunted growth, with children living in homes 2000 meters or more above sea level 40% more at risk than those living 1000 metres below, finds research published in the open access journal BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health.
While research from other countries indicates a link between residential altitude and stunting, it's not clear if this might also be applicable in India, where a substantial number of people live more than 2500 metres above sea level. Most of the children lived less than 1000 m above sea level; 1.4% lived between 1000 and 1999m above sea level; and 0.2% lived at or above 2000m. Seven out of 10 lived in rural areas.
Mother's education emerged as an influential factor: stunting prevalence fell as maternal educational attainment rose. The proportion of children whose mothers had had no schooling was more than double that of children whose mothers had had a higher education: 48% vs 21%. But there are plausible explanations for their findings, they suggest. For example, chronic exposure to high altitude can reduce appetite, restrict oxygen delivery to tissues, and limit nutrient absorption.
"A multipronged approach should combine reproductive health initiatives, women's nutrition programmes, infant and young child feeding interventions, and food security measures. Continued research, monitoring, and evaluation will be key to guide evidence-based policies and targeted action to ensure every Indian child has the opportunity for healthy growth and development."
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