Heightened Risks: Stunted Growth Linked to Living at Higher Altitudes

Children living at 2000+ m above sea level in India are 40% more at risk than those living 1000m below. Children in rural areas seem to be the most vulnerable.

Living at higher altitudes is linked to an increased risk of stunted growth in India, with children living in homes 2000 meters (~6600 feet) or more above sea level 40% more at risk than those living 1000 meters (~3300 feet) below. This is according to research published in the open-access journal BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health.

Children living in rural areas seem to be the most vulnerable, prompting the researchers to advocate prioritizing nutritional programs in hilly and mountainous regions of the country.