Investigating the direct and indirect associations between birth intervals and child growth and development: A cross-sectional analysis of 13 Demographic and Health Surveys.

ABSTRACT: There is considerable literature on the associations of short birth intervals with adverse perinatal outcomes. However, less is known about the associations with child growth and development. In this study, we investigated the associations between birth intervals and child growth and development and examined child illness, child diet, and maternal stimulation as potential mechanisms. We pooled Demographic and Health Survey data on 8300 children aged 36-59 months from 13 countries (Benin, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Chad, Congo, Haiti, Honduras, Rwanda, Senegal, Timor-Leste, Togo, and Uganda). Longer birth interval was defined as a preceding birth interval ≥33 months. Child growth was assessed using height-for-age Z-score (HAZ). Child cognitive and socio-emotional development were measured

SUBMITTER: Bliznashka L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9287629 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature