Background: The double burden of malnutrition in sub-Saharan African countries at different levels of economic development was not extensively explored. This study investigated prevalence, trends, and correlates of undernutrition and overnutrition among children under 5 years and women aged 15–49 years in Malawi, Namibia, and Zimbabwe with differing socio- economic status. Methods: Prevalence of underweight, overweight, and obesity were determined and compared across the countries using demographic and health surveys data. Multivariable logistic regression was used to ascertain any relationships between selected demographic and socio-economic variables and overnutrition and undernutrition. Results: An increasing trend in overweight/obesity in children and women was observed across all countries. Zimbabwe had the highest prevalence of overweight/obesity among women (35.13%) and children (5.9%). A decreasing trend in undernutrition among children was observed across all countries, but the prevalence of stunting was still very high compared to the worldwide average level (22%). Malawi had the highest stunting rate (37.1%). Urban residence, maternal age, and household wealth status influenced maternal nutritional status. The likelihood of undernutrition in children was significantly higher with low wealth status, being a boy, and low level of maternal education. Conclusions: Economic development and urbanization can result in nutritional status shifts.

This study examined whether the association between neighbourhood disadvantage and obesity was moderated by quantity and quality of greenspace. The sample included 2848 mid-to-older aged adults residing in 200 neighbourhoods in Brisbane, Australia from the HABITAT study. Self-reported height and weight were used to calculate body mass index (BMI), neighbourhood disadvantage was measured using a census-derived composite index and greenspace was measured geospatially. We found evidence of moderation by park quality: lower average BMI at higher levels of park quality was shown in the Q3 rather than the Q1 (least disadvantaged) neighbourhood disadvantage group. The findings suggest that, for reducing socioeconomic inequalities in obesity, the quality of greenspace is imperative.

This qualitative study explored the social determinants of mental health among African youths in South Australia, revealing five major themes: displacement and migration, family relationships and dynamics, social exclusion, racism and discrimination, and unemployment and education. The findings indicate that many participants experienced significant displacement due to armed conflict, leading to prolonged migration journeys and feelings of disconnection and instability upon their arrival in Australia. Cultural tensions arose as participants grappled with reconciling their heritage with Australian culture, often resulting in mental health challenges and harmful behaviours. Furthermore, while family connections provided important emotional support, many youths faced emotional burdens due to separations from their families and changes in family dynamics. The study also addresses the impact of racism and discrimination on their experiences, showing how stereotypes and prejudices further isolate young people and hinder their meaningful participation in society. These findings, therefore, highlight the urgent need for additional support systems to foster community connections and promote mental well-being among youths from refugee backgrounds.