Bayesian modelling of growth retardation among children under five years old in Ethiopia

Kasahun Takele, Haramaya University

Malnutrition among children under age five is the major public health problem in the developing world particularly in Ethiopia. The aim of this study was then to determine statistically the determinants of children malnutrition, using 2011 EDHS data. The overall prevalence of stunting among children in Ethiopia was 43.3%. Bayesian Semi-parametric regression model was used with Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) techniques. It was found that the covariates sex of child, preceding birth interval, birth order of child, place of residence, region, mother’s education level, husband educational level, toilet facility, number of household members, household economic status, diarrhea and fever were the most important determinants of children nutritional status in Ethiopia. It is suggested that for reducing childhood malnutrition, due emphasis should be given in improving the knowledge and practice of parents on appropriate young child feeding practice and frequent growth monitoring together with appropriate and timely interventions.