Household income, malnutrition, and mortality in China

The study investigated the relationship between household income, malnutrition, and mortality in China based on longitudinal data collected at five-year intervals from 1995 to 2020. Accordingly, trends in adult female, adult male, and infant mortality were examined together with changes in household income and undernourishment prevalence. The results show a steady decline in mortality in every group, whereas malnutrition fell precipitously, especially after 2010. Household income was rather volatile but generally increased in later years, matching the decline in mortality. Graphical evidence suggests that there are inverse relationships between mortality and income, as well as between mortality and malnutrition. This is reflected in the correlation matrix, with all co-movements strong because of common downward trends over time. Overall, improved household welfare, enhanced nutritional status, and health system strengthening all seemed to contribute to the better health status of the population in China. Based on these results, the study recommends continued investment in nutrition programs, expanded social welfare measures to support household income, and further strengthening of maternal and child healthcare services to sustain progress in reducing mortality.