Urban-Rural Comparisons of Nutrition Status in the Third World

Abstract

Debate continues on development priorities between urban and rural populations in emerging nations. A review of 33 papers on nutrition status and dietary intakes from different continents and countries found comparisons of poor urban and rural populations inconclusive. It is proposed that the two populations can never be truly comparable, and that urban-rural competition for resources is not useful. Several kinds of health and nutrition surveys could be useful for identifying priority groups and issues within the urban context.