Trends in urban/rural inequalities in physical growth among Chinese children over three decades of urbanization in Guangzhou: 1985–2015

Abstract

Abstract Background Great growth inequalities between urban and rural areas have been reported in China over the past years. By examining urban/rural inequalities in physical growth among children 0.90 with P < 0.05) and negatively correlated with the prevalence of stunted growth (all R < -0.87 with P < 0.05). Conclusion Growth inequalities gradually decreased with economic development and urbanization, while new challenges such as obesity emerged. To eliminate health problems due to catch-up growth among rural children, comprehensive intervention programs for early child growth should be promoted in rural areas.

Keywords

• Health inequalities
• Physical growth trend
• Economic reform
• Guangzhou city