The Double Burden of Obesity and Malnutrition in a Protracted Emergency Setting: A Cross-Sectional Study of Western Sahara Refugees

Background Households from vulnerable groups experiencing epidemiological transitions are known to be affected concomitantly by under-nutrition and obesity. Yet, it is unknown to what extent this double burden affects refugee populations dependent on food assistance. We assessed the double burden of malnutrition among Western Sahara refugees living in a protracted emergency. 2005 households were sampled. Anthropometric measurements were collected (weight, height and waist circumference) in 1608 children 6-59 months and 1781 women 15-49 years. The prevalence of GAM in children was 9.1%; 29.1% were stunted, 18.6% were underweight and 2.4% were overweight. Overall, households classified as overweight (31.5%) were most common, followed by undernourished (25.8%), and then double burden affecting 24.7%. The double burden of obesity and undernutrition is highly prevalent in households among western refugees.