Micronutrient Deficiencies and Public Health: A Quantitative Assessment and Policy Directions for Sustainable Nutrition
Abstract
Micronutrient deficiencies remain one of the most pressing yet under-addressed public health challenges in Pakistan, where malnutrition disproportionately affects women, children, and marginalized communities. This study investigates the prevalence, determinants, and policy implications of micronutrient deficiencies, focusing on iron, zinc, vitamin A, and iodine. Using cross-sectional household survey data (n=1200) across rural and urban districts, the research employs logistic regression and multivariate analysis to estimate the probability of micronutrient deficiencies based on dietary diversity, socioeconomic status, and education. Results indicate that 52% of children under five and 44% of women of reproductive age suffer from at least one micronutrient deficiency, with rural households, low-income groups, and food-insecure families at highest risk. Dietary diversity scores were significantly associated with lower odds of deficiencies (OR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.48–0.82), while maternal education was a strong protective factor. The findings highlight the structural nature of malnutrition in Pakistan, rooted in poverty, gender inequities, and weak food systems. Policy recommendations include the integration of micronutrient supplementation into maternal and child health programs, fortification of staple foods, and nutrition-sensitive agricultural interventions. Strengthening public awareness, improving market access to nutrient-rich foods, and aligning national nutrition strategies with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are critical steps to addressing hidden hunger in Pakistan.