Trends in Double Burden of Malnutrition in Indonesia Revealed

Researchers at Harvard Medical School have published new data detailing the trends in malnutrition in Indonesia, a low- and middle-income country facing a double burden of undernutrition and obesity. The study, published in Scientific Reports, examined trends in malnutrition among Indonesian adults between 2007 and 2023. The research found that Indonesia's malnutrition trends have evolved, with undernutrition and obesity coexisting within its population.

Key Takeaways:

Indonesia faces a double burden of malnutrition, with undernutrition and obesity coexisting within its population.
The study analyzed malnutrition trends between 2007 and 2023, filling a gap in understanding how these trends have evolved across different demographic and socioeconomic groups.
Without timely intervention, obesity may soon become disproportionately concentrated among poorer populations, as seen in other transitioning economies.
The study was conducted by researchers from Harvard Medical School, including Farizal Rizky Muharram, Sydney Tjandra, Nya Jeumpa Madani, Claudia Rokx, and Asnawi Abdullah.
The study aims to provide insights into the national trends of undernutrition and obesity in Indonesia, helping to inform public health policies and interventions.
The research relies on the BMI (Body Mass Index) measurements of Indonesian adults between 2007 and 2023.

Statistics:

The study found that Indonesia's malnutrition trends have evolved, with undernutrition and obesity coexisting within its population.
The BMI measurements of Indonesian adults between 2007 and 2023 show a significant increase in the prevalence of obesity.
The study estimates that without timely intervention, obesity may soon become disproportionately concentrated among poorer populations, as seen in other transitioning economies.
The study analyzed data from 2007 to 2023, revealing trends in malnutrition among Indonesian adults.

Sources:

Trends in the Double Burden of Malnutrition Among Indonesian Adults, 2007 to 2023. Scientific Reports, 2025;15(1):34883.
Harvard Medical School, Dept. of Global Health and Social Medicine, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA, 02115, United States.
Nature Portfolio, Heidelberger Platz 3, Berlin, 14197, Germany (Publisher of Scientific Reports).