Benin

SUMMARY

The nutritional status of preschool children of Benin is of concern. Results of the last national Demographic and Health Survey of 2001 indicate a prevalence of stunting of 27% and a prevalence of wasting of 9% among children under three years. While the prevalence of wasting decreased from 14% in 1996, no improvement was seen in the prevalence of stunting (25% in 1996). Stunting (chronic malnutrition) affects both boys and girls, while wasting (acute malnutrition) is more prevalent among boys. Regions of Benin with the highest prevalences of child malnutrition are Borgou, Atacora and Zou (EDSB, 1996; 2001).

The nutritional status of mothers (15 to 49 years) improved slightly from 1996 to 2001; the prevalence of chronic energy deficiency, dropped from 15% in 1996 to 11% in 2001 (EDSB, 1996; 2001).

Overweight and obesity are emerging among adults as well as among children. The nutrition problems of countries in economic transition are already present in Bénin, which doesn't mean Bénin is in transition, but rather reflects external influences.

Micronutrient deficiencies, mainly of iron, iodine and vitamin A, are major public health problems in Bénin. Although the prevalence of goitre is not high at the national level, there are areas with a very high prevalence, e.g. in Mono where 69% of women of child-bearing age are affected (DANA and UNICEF, 2001). Overall the prevalence of low serum retinol among children 1-3 years old is 83% in the North of country and 64% in the South (MSP & UNICEF, 2000). Concerning iron deficiency, 82% of children 6-59 months of age are anaemic as well as 64% of mothers. Moreover, in areas vulnerable to food insecurity the situation is worse (EDSB, 2001).

Dietary habits are consistent with the traditions and the geographical context. Nevertheless some changes are occurring, related to trends in income and demography, and due to external influences. In the absence of national food consumption data, regional data show seasonal variations in energy intake, especially in the North, and regional differences (Schultink, 1991; Ategbo, 1993). According to Food Balance Sheets, cereals, roots and tubers are the main sources of energy. The diet is predominantly rich in carbohydrates, low in fat and protein. The supply of animal foods is low (FAOSTAT, 2002).

In Benin, there is one health clinic for every 5 133 inhabitants, and one doctor for every 6 590. The situation is much worse in rural areas (EDSB, 2001). Immunization programmes are still insufficient. Only 59% of children aged 2 to 23 months have received the vaccines recommended by WHO to control the main endemic diseases, among which the greatest killers are tuberculosis, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio and measles (PNUD, 2001).