title: Invited Commentary: Improving Estimates of Severe Acute Malnutrition Requires More Data.
abstract: In this issue of the Journal, Isanaka et al. (Am J Epidemiol 2016;184(12):861-869) set out to update an incidence correction factor used for estimating numbers of cases of severe acute malnutrition (SAM) in children aged 6-59 months. The total number of current SAM cases (prevalent cases) increases by the number of new (incident) cases and decreases as a result of recovery or death. Prevalence estimates are obtained from cross-sectional surveys. Calculation of incidence typically requires longitudinal data, which evidently are rarely collected for SAM, and so a correction factor is applied instead. Isanaka et al. pool and meta-analyze data from longitudinal and community programs in 3 West African countries (Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso), covering the period 2009-2012. Heterogeneity and the ongoing lack of data undermine the use of a single incidence correction factor for SAM estimates. Routine data collection is recommended as a way forward and aligns with recommendations of the World Health Organization. This commentary helps to outline a context for the use of such data and provide some perspective on the inadequacy of data, relative to the importance of the issue.
authors.forename: Alexis
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Hure
authors.forename: Christopher
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Oldmeadow
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Attia
mesh_terms: D002050:Burkina Faso; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008302:Mali; D044342:Malnutrition / Q000453:epidemiology*; D009548:Niger / Q000453:epidemiology; D000067011:Severe Acute Malnutrition
keywords: child; correction factor; incidence; malnutrition; public health; severe acute malnutrition