Browsing by Author "Mesfin Merkebu"

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    Spatiotemporal Clustering of Child Malnutrition in Ethiopia: Evidence from Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey
    (Addis Ababa University, 2025-02) Mesfin Merkebu; Sitotaw Haile (PhD)
    Child malnutrition is a major worldwide concern, accounts for 45% of the deaths of children under five. Significant regional differences in child malnutrition rates exist in Ethiopia, a low-income and heavily populated nation in sub-Saharan Africa. This study examines the spatiotemporal clustering of malnutrition in children under five across Ethiopia and explores the associated social and environmental factors. 46,172 weighted samples of children were analyzed using data from five Ethiopian Demographic and Health Surveys (2000–2019). Multivariable logistic regression and spatiotemporal clustering analysis techniques (Getis-Ord G*) were employed to identify hotspot clusters of child malnutrition ( stunting, underweight, and wasting) and their associated factors. QGIS3.36.0 was applied for visualization, and STATA version 17 was employed for exploratory analysis. The major findings indicate that areas like Amhara, Oromia, Sidama, and Central Ethiopia consistently have high rates of malnutrition, while Tigray, Afar, Benishangul-Gumuz, Gambella, Southern SNNP, and Somali regions have emerging clusters. Hotspot clustering has declined country wide over time. Child malnutrition rates were strongly impacted by variables like altitude,marital status, and immunization. The study reveals significant spatiotemporal clustering of child malnutrition in Ethiopia, particularly in areas of the Amhara, Oromia, and Sidama regions, as well as parts of Central Ethiopia. While malnutrition hotspots have declined over time, socioeconomic and health-related disparities persist. Factors like maternal education, wealth index, and immunization correlate strongly with malnutrition rates. Despite progress, child malnutrition remains high. Targeted actions in food security, economic development, maternal education, and healthcare services are essential for rapid reduction.