Spatial analysis of stunting and its associations with key child health and nutrition determinants at provincial level in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Childhood stunting is an issue of global public health concern, and its irreversible effects can have far-reaching consequences, well into adulthood. Despite various interventions and efforts, stunting in Zimbabwe remains high. Few studies have looked at the factors associated with stunting, by province, in Zimbabwe. The aim of the study was to contribute to the scientific evidence on this topic. This was done by describing stunting and its associations with maternal and child health, nutrition and sociodemographic determinants at provincial level. The second level was to map, visualise and describe stunting in relation to physical geography by province in Zimbabwe.