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EXPLORING THE NEXUS BETWEEN HOUSEHOLD INFRASTRUCTURE, MATERNAL HEALTH, AND CHILDHOOD MALNUTRITION: A DISTRICT-LEVEL ANALYSIS IN GUJARAT, INDIA
Keywords:
infrastructure, childhood malnutrition, regional disparities, national family health survey-5 (NFHS-5), maternal healthDOI:
https://doi.org/10.17654/2347527726001Abstract
Childhood malnutrition remains a persistent public health challenge in many regions, including Gujarat, India. This paper aims to investigate the relationship between infrastructure, maternal health indicators, and childhood malnutrition at the district level in Gujarat. Utilizing secondary data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), this study examines the prevalence of malnutrition among children under 5 years old and its association with various infrastructure factors, including access to improved sources of drinking water, sanitation facilities, electricity, and clean cooking fuel. Additionally, maternal health indicators such as antenatal care visits and iron-folic acid consumption are analyzed to understand their influence on childhood malnutrition. The methodology involves conducting correlation analysis to identify any significant relationships between infrastructure variables, maternal health indicators, and malnutrition rates. Furthermore, regional disparities in malnutrition prevalence are explored to highlight areas with unique characteristics or higher vulnerability. This research contributes to existing literature by providing insights into the complex interplay between infrastructure, maternal health, and childhood malnutrition at the district level in Gujarat. Findings from this study can inform targeted interventions and policy measures aimed at reducing childhood malnutrition and improving overall child health outcomes in the region.
Received: October 1, 2025
Accepted: November 19, 2025
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