Regional Overview on the Double Burden of Malnutrition and Examples of Program and Policy Responses: African Region

Abstract

Sub-Saharan Africa is experiencing the double burden of malnutrition (DBM) with high levels of undernutrition and a growing burden of overweight/obesity and diet-related noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Undernourishment in sub-Saharan Africa increased between 2010 and 2016. Although the prevalence of chronic undernutrition is decreasing, the number of stunted children under 5 years of age is increasing due to population growth. Meanwhile, overweight/obesity is increasing in all age groups, with girls and women being more affected than boys and men. It is increasingly recognized that the drivers of the DBM originate outside the health sector and operate across national and regional boundaries. Largely unregulated marketing of cheap processed foods and nonalcoholic beverages as well as lifestyle changes are driving consumption of unhealthy diets in the African region. Progress toward the goal of ending hunger and malnutrition by 2030 requires intensified efforts to reduce undernutrition and focused action on the reduction of obesity and diet-related NCDs. The World Health Organization is developing a strategic plan to guide governments and development partners in tackling all forms of malnutrition through strengthened policies, improved service delivery, and better use of data. It is only through coordinated and complementary efforts that strides can be made to reduce the DBM.