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Invited Commentary: Improving Estimates of Severe Acute Malnutrition Requires More Data.
- Source :
- American Journal of Epidemiology; 12/15/2016, Vol. 184 Issue 12, p870-872, 3p
- Publication Year :
- 2016
-
Abstract
- In this issue of the Journal, Isanaka et al. (Am J Epidemiol. 2016;184(12):861-869) set out to update an incidence correction factor used for estimating numbers of cases of severe acute malnutrition (SAM) in children aged 6-59 months. The total number of current SAM cases (prevalent cases) increases by the number of new (incident) cases and decreases as a result of recovery or death. Prevalence estimates are obtained from cross-sectional surveys. Calculation of incidence typically requires longitudinal data, which evidently are rarely collected for SAM, and so a correction factor is applied instead. Isanaka et al. pool and meta-analyze data from longitudinal and community programs in 3 West African countries (Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso), covering the period 2009-2012. Heterogeneity and the ongoing lack of data undermine the use of a single incidence correction factor for SAM estimates. Routine data collection is recommended as a way forward and aligns with recommendations of the World Health Organization. This commentary helps to outline a context for the use of such data and provide some perspective on the inadequacy of data, relative to the importance of the issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 00029262
- Volume :
- 184
- Issue :
- 12
- Database :
- Complementary Index
- Journal :
- American Journal of Epidemiology
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 120238497
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1093/aje/kww131