Family Member and Healthcare Provider Perceptions of Factors Influencing Undernutrition Among Infants and Young Children in South Asia: A Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies

Background: Undernutrition among infants and young children in South Asia remains a major public health concern, contributing to high rates of morbidity and mortality. While quantitative systematic reviews have identified various risk factors for undernutrition, no review has focused on qualitative studies. This study aims to review published literature on family member and healthcare provider perceptions about influences on undernutrition among infants and young children in South Asia. Methods: We searched for qualitative research articles published from 2000 to 2026 in the PubMed, Scopus and CINAHL databases, and used the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) tool to assess the quality of selected articles. Selected articles were analyzed thematically. The PROSPERO registration number is CRD42022385382. Results: After screening 201 research articles, 19 articles were selected for inclusion in this review. Perceived influences of undernutrition among children were categorized into individual, socio-cultural, economic, environmental and system factors. Interconnected influences included maternal illness, single motherhood, mothers’ knowledge and awareness, convenience of providing low-quality ready-made and junk food, spiritual beliefs and superstition, violence against women, financial constraints in a context of rising food prices and seasonal impacts on food production, and physical accessibility of healthcare services. Conclusions: This review emphasizes the complex interplay of influences on undernutrition among young children in South Asia. Potential interventions must be culturally tailored and gender-sensitive, with key strategies including nutrition education, community-based support, maternal health improvements, and policies addressing food insecurity and healthcare accessibility.