A new study by the Global Nutrition Target Collaborators, titled “Global, Regional, and National Progress Towards the 2030 Global Nutrition Targets and Forecasts to 2050: A Systematic Analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021“, published in The Lancet in 2024, highlights concerning trends in global nutrition. The study reveals a widespread increase in childhood overweight and stagnant anaemia in women, signaling a major health challenge. Conducted across 204 countries from 2012 to 2021, the study evaluates six key global nutrition targets (GNTs) established by the World Health Assembly. These targets include low birthweight, exclusive breastfeeding, child growth (wasting, stunting, and overweight), and anaemia among females of reproductive age.
The findings highlight the global nutrition challenges and show that only a few countries have made substantial progress in certain areas. Child overweight has seen an increase in 201 countries, while anaemia in women of reproductive age has shown minimal progress. Alarmingly, the study finds that no countries have met the target for anaemia reduction, and only a few nations have reached targets for exclusive breastfeeding or child growth. This underscores the difficulty in achieving these vital nutrition targets across regions.
While some progress was noted, especially in reducing the attributable burden of low birthweight, child stunting, and child wasting, challenges remain. These improvements were more evident in low- and middle-income countries, but they were not enough to reach the targets set for 2030. The study reveals that although progress has occurred, it has been inconsistent and insufficient to meet the global nutrition targets by 2030.
Projections for 2030 indicate that only 94 countries will meet one target, while 89 countries will not meet any targets. By 2050, these projections remain concerning, with no countries expected to meet the anaemia target, despite some progress in other areas. This highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies and stronger policies to address these challenges effectively.
Experts stress that continued investment in preventive and treatment efforts for childhood illnesses is essential to avoid backsliding. Additionally, multisectoral policies are crucial for addressing the underlying determinants of poor nutrition, such as socio-economic disparities and limited access to healthcare. Without substantial policy changes, progress will remain slow, and millions of children and women will remain vulnerable to the consequences of poor nutrition.
