Systematic Review of Stunting Prevalence in Children Under Five in Refugee and Internally Displaced Populations

Abstract

Background: Refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) face significant health risks, including stunting in children. In 2019, 21.3% of children under five globally were affected by stunting, with Asia and Africa being the most affected regions. Methods: This systematic review conducted an analysis of English-language literature published between 2007 and 2024 in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Result: The review included more than 900 publications from reputable platforms, such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, and SagePub. Eight publications were chosen for additional examination following a comprehensive evaluation. Conclusion: Stunting among children under five in refugee and internally displaced populations is 26%, slightly higher than the global average. IDPs have a significantly higher rate of 37%, possibly due to socioeconomic conditions. Regional disparities exist, with South-East Asia having the highest stunting rate (34%). Addressing these issues requires regional and global efforts to improve nutritional standards and support systems.