A multilevel analysis of individual, household and community level factors on stunting among children aged 6-59 months in Eswatini: A secondary analysis of the Eswatini 2010 and 2014 Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys.

Abstract

IntroductionChild stunting is a significant public health problem in Eswatini. It is associated with a range of child health outcomes, including morbidity, physical and cognitive growth.ObjectiveTo determine the individual, household, and community-level factors associated with child stunting in Eswatini in 2010 and 2014.MethodsUsing the Eswatini Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys conducted in 2010 and 2014, a secondary analysis was done of the children surveyed, aged 6-59 months. A total of 1,891 were surveyed in 2010, and 1,963 children in 2014. Univariate, bivariable analysis and multivariable multilevel logistic regression were used to establish the factors associated with stunting.ResultsThe study found that stunting decreased significantly between 2010 and 2014, from 31.4% to 25.5% (pConclusionThe findings highlight the individual, household, and community-level factors significantly associated with stunting and the changes between the two surveys.