Análisis del Plan Estratégico Intersectorial para la Prevención y Reducción de la Desnutrición Crónica en Ecuador, período 2021-2023

Abstract

The general objective of this research is to analyze the effectiveness of the Intersectoral Strategic Plan for the Prevention and Reduction of Chronic Child Malnutrition in Ecuador during the period 2021–2023, based on national data and a review of public policies implemented to combat chronic malnutrition in childhood. The study is supported by a qualitative methodological structure with an analytical-descriptive design, in which the impact of public policies implemented under the Intersectoral Strategic Plan was described in relation to the reduction of malnutrition rates in Ecuador. The analysis revealed a slow and insufficient decrease in chronic child malnutrition (CCM) rates—only 2.75% compared to previous years—as a result of the “Ecuador Grows Without Child Malnutrition Strategy (EECSDI).” Subsequently, the main related factors were identified: education, food security, and access to drinking water, which have influenced the implementation of the plan. Taking into account the collaboration among different institutions and sectors, it was determined that the highest prevalence exists in households facing greater food insecurity, where mothers have low educational levels and limited access to drinking water and sanitation services. Finally, the limitations in the implementation of the Intersectoral Strategic Plan were interpreted, considering geographic and socioeconomic disparities in the outcomes. These findings indicate that the effectiveness of the plan is not equitably distributed, and that the regions least affected by chronic child malnutrition are the Sierra and Amazon. Keywords: Chronic child malnutrition (CCM); Intersectoral Strategic Plan for the Prevention and Reduction of Chronic Child Malnutrition; prevalent factors; geographic disparity.