Economic Impact of Child Malnutrition in Colombia
Author Information
Author(s): Dario Londoño Trujillo, Paula Andrea Taborda Restrepo, María Camila De la Hoz, Juan Carlos Burgos Castro, Joan Sebastian Arbelaez Vargas, Diana María Pineda Ruiz
Primary Institution: Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá
Hypothesis
What is the burden of disease attributable to malnutrition in Colombia, and what is its economic impact from a societal perspective?
Conclusion
Child malnutrition in Colombia presents a considerable burden on health systems, households, and the national economy, demonstrating the need for robust interventions to mitigate its long-term socioeconomic impact.
Supporting Evidence
- Malnutrition accounted for 419.84 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) per 1000 inhabitants.
- The total cost of malnutrition over a four-year period was approximately USD 243.58 million.
- 65% of the burden of malnutrition fell on households.
- 28.1% of households experience moderate to severe food insecurity.
- One in ten children experiences stunting, and about two out of every hundred suffer from wasting.
Takeaway
Child malnutrition is a big problem in Colombia that costs a lot of money and affects many families. We need to help these kids to make sure they grow up healthy and strong.
Methodology
A Markov chain model was utilized to simulate six health states related to malnutrition, integrating direct and indirect costs.
Potential Biases
Potential errors in caregiver-reported data could affect the accuracy of indirect cost estimates.
Limitations
Malnutrition is underreported due to gaps in health coverage and data collection, especially in rural areas.
Participant Demographics
Children primarily belonged to socioeconomic strata 1, 2, and 3, with a prevalence in strata 1 and 2 (91%).
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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