Malnutrition remains a critical problem globally. Unfortunately while the global prevalence has been declining over time, as a result of concerted public health efforts, there are areas (notably in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia) where progress has stagnated. These regions are also resource-poor, and monitoring progress in the fight against malnutrition can be problematic. We propose geostatistical modelling using data from existing demographic surveys supplemented by remote-sensed information to provide improved estimates of childhood stunting, accounting for spatial and non-spatial differences across regions. We use two study areas – Ghana and Bangladesh – and our results, in the form of prevalence maps, provide evidence that identifies communities for targeted intervention. In countries with limited resources, these maps can be useful diagnostic tools for health planning, decision making and implementation.

Bernard Baffour is a social statistician and Associate Professor in the School of Demography at the ANU.

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