A comprehensive review of multifactorial determinants and predictors of malnutrition in adolescent girls

This review synthesizes research from 76 studies (2010–2025) to identify the multifactorial determinants defining malnutrition among adolescent girls. Using the PRISMA 2020 framework, the review studies the biological, socioeconomic, cultural, behavioural, and environmental drivers contributing to the triple burden of malnutrition i.e. undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and overnutrition. The findings highlighted the consistent associations between poor dietary diversity, low household income, parental illiteracy, limited health-service access, gender norms, early marriage, and inadequate sanitation with adverse nutritional consequences including stunting, anemia, and overweight. Although anthropometric and biochemical assessments are extensively used, applications of machine learning for early detection remain largely unexplored. This review highlights the urgent need for longitudinal studies and integrated, multisectoral policies to effectively address the complex determinants of malnutrition in adolescent girls.