Transition and persistence in the double burden of malnutrition and overweight or obesity: Evidence from South Africa. (November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Azomahou, Théophile T.; Diene, Bity; Gosselin-Pali, Adrien
• Is Part Of: Food policy. Volume 113(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-11
• Subjects: I10 -- I12 -- I14 -- 012; Double burden of malnutrition -- Overweight -- Obesity -- South Africa; Food supply -- Periodicals; Food security -- Periodicals; Food -- Quality -- Periodicals; Food Supply -- Periodicals; Alimentation -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 338.1905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.foodpol.2022.102303
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-9192

Abstract

Abstract: This paper analyzes transition and persistence patterns of the Double Burden of Malnutrition (DBM) and overweight or obesity (OVOB) using South African household data spanning over 2008–2017. To test whether the DBM (the coexistence of at least one overweight or obese and one underweight individual in a household) is either a transitory or a persistent phenomenon, we use a dynamic random-effects probit model with unobserved heterogeneity. Our findings suggest that DBM is a transitory phenomenon as most double burden households over one survey period do not remain so in the subsequent waves. OVOB households remain so, implying persistence at the household level. We observe that the persistence of OVOB at the household level is mainly driven by persistence at the individual level. On the other hand, we find that the individual level rationale for the transitory status of the DBM is that underweight does not persist over time as underweight individuals do not remain so for extended periods. These widespread nutritional issues require appropriate measures such as double-duty actions. Highlights: We use South African panel data survey over 2008–2017. The double burden of malnutrition is transitory and overweight/obesity is persistent. Double burden households are likely to become overweight or obese. At the individual level, undernutrition does not persist while overweight/obesity does. Double-duty actions are needed to address these issues.