Wealthy countries once faced child stunting levels on same scale as today's low- and middle-income countries
Medical Xpress
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
New research reveals that high-income countries once faced severe levels of child stunting comparable to those seen in many low- and middle-income countries today. A study led by the London School of Economics, published in *BMJ Global Health*, highlights historical data showing that nations like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany experienced significant rates of stunting during the 19th and early 20th centuries. This finding challenges perceptions of child stunting as a solely global health issue in developing nations, demonstrating that it was once a widespread problem even in wealthy countries.
Child stunting, defined as significantly below-average height for age, is primarily caused by malnutrition, poor healthcare access, and environmental factors. The study underscores the importance of addressing these issues through policy changes, economic development, and improved access to nutrition and healthcare. By examining historical trends, researchers found that high-income countries were able to reduce stunting rates through investments in public health infrastructure, economic growth, and social programs.
The study’s findings are particularly significant for global health efforts. They provide evidence that child stunting is not an inevitable outcome tied to a country’s wealth or development stage but rather a solvable issue requiring targeted interventions. This research also challenges the notion that high-income countries are immune to such
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/24/2026