Regional education and wealth-related inequalities in malnutrition among women in Bangladesh.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES\nThis paper examines the associations of socioeconomic and demographic correlates with malnutrition among women and investigates education and wealth-related inequalities in malnutrition among women by region.\n\n\nDESIGN\nWe utilize a two-level mixed-effects logistic regression model to evaluate the associations and employ the concentration, Wagstaff, and Erreygers s correction indices to measure socioeconomic inequalities in malnutrition among women.\n\n\nSETTING\nBangladesh Demographic and Health Survey data.\n\n\nPARTICIPANTS\nNon-pregnant women aged 15-49.\n\n\nRESULTS\nWe find evidence of a significant cluster effect in the data. Women s age, marital status, total children ever born, education level, husband s/partner s education level, residence, and wealth index appear to be significantly associated with women underweight and overweight/obesity status. Underweight status is higher among less-educated women and women from poor households, whereas overweight/obesity is more concentrated among higher educated women and women from wealthy households. The southwestern region of the country demonstrates lower education and wealth-related inequalities in malnutrition among women. In contrast, the central and the northeastern areas apparently experience the highest education and wealth-related inequalities in malnutrition among women. The regional differences in predicted probabilities of being underweight shrink at higher education level and the richest quintile, whereas the differences in overweight/obese diminish at the primary education level and lower quintile households.\n\n\nCONCLUSIONS\nOur findings strengthen the evidence base for effective regional policy interventions to mitigate education and wealth-related inequalities in malnutrition among women. There is a need for developing regional awareness programs and establishing regional monitoring cells to ensure proper health and nutrition facilities in underprivileged regions.