Breaking the cycle of malnutrition: Insights into trends, regional gaps, and future predictions for under-five nutritional deficiencies in India (1990–2021)

This is the authors' abstract. We don't add key points for this paper.

Child malnutrition remains a critical public health concern in India, particularly among under-five children. This study analyzed trends in nutritional deficiencies from 1990 to 2021 using Global Burden of Disease (GBD) data and predicted prevalence up to 2031. Joinpoint regression revealed significant declines in prevalence (−1.55% APC, 2010–2016) and mortality rates, with the sharpest reduction among females (−19.38% APC, 2019–2021). Bihar reported the highest prevalence in 2021, while Chhattisgarh saw the largest decrease (−85%). Projections indicate a slight increase by 2031. Regional and gender disparities necessitate targeted interventions to ensure equitable progress and meet global nutrition goals.