Identification of factors associated with acute malnutrition in children under 5 years and forecasting future prevalence: assessing the potential of statistical and machine learning methods.

Introduction: Eliminating acute malnutrition in children under 5 years of age stands as a critical health priority outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2, 'Zero Hunger'. This requires targeted provision of treatment and preventative services. However, accurately forecasting future prevalence of cases remains challenging, with the application of predictive models being notably scarce.