Underweight in Women

Definition

Proportion of women aged 20 and older with BMI <18.5 kg/m². Estimates are age-standardized.

Relevance

Women who are underweight may not be receiving the adequate amount of energy and macronutrients, placing them at greater risk for micronutrient deficiencies, osteoporosis, infection, and mortality. Women of reproductive age who are underweight may be at greater risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes if they become pregnant.