BETWEEN LACK AND EXCESS – TRAJECTORIES OF CHILD MALNUTRITION IN CONTEMPORARY ROMANIA
Abstract
Child malnutrition remains a persistent public health and food security concern in Romania, reflecting persistent social and economic inequalities. This paper analyses malnutrition evolution among children under 5 years of age, over the period 2000–2022, based on modeled estimates published by FAOSTAT. The study focuses on two key indicators: stunting and overweight. The results show a significant reduction in the prevalence of stunting (from 13.5% in 2000 to 7.8% in 2022), the almost complete disappearance of wasting after 2002, and a marked decrease in overweight after the peak period of 2007–2010. These trajectories indicate considerable progress, but also persistent challenges – particularly with regard to chronic undernutrition and the simultaneous coexistence of nutritional deficiencies and excesses. The results are discussed in the context of socio-economic transition, health policy reforms, and food accessibility. The paper argues that child malnutrition in Romania today reflects a “double burden” of food imbalance, driven by structural inequalities and fragmented policy responses. An integrated approach, focused on equity, is needed to ensure the right of all children in Romania to adequate and nutritious food.
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