Young Lives: growth recovery from early-life stunting is possible
Young Lives confirms the importance of the first 1,000 days of life for growth, health and development. But our research shows that growth recovery from early-life stunting is possible well beyond this period, with the window of opportunity extending into adolescence. Children whose initial growth was normal can also falter after early childhood, if proper nutrition is not sustained.
In 2002, betweeen 21% and 40% of Young Lives 1-year-olds were stunted. By the time they wew 15, in 2016, the situation had improved with rising wealth and better services, with stunting affecting 12% and 28% of children.
However, children in rural areas (often from minority ethnic groups) and from poorer households are much more likely to be stunted throughout childhood.
