Bibliometric Analysis of Nutritional Epidemiology and Malnutrition Research: The Impact of the SDGs Over Two Decades (2005–2024)

Natasha  Aqmarina; Tutut Okta  Hardiyanti

doi:10.20961/plexus.v5i5.2774

Authors

Natasha Aqmarina Department of Community, Family, and Occupational Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Thailand
Tutut Okta Hardiyanti Health Research Center, Institute for Research and Community Service, Diponegoro University, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20961/plexus.v5i5.2774

Keywords:

nutritional epidemiology, malnutrition, SDGs, bibliometric analysis, research trends

Abstract

Introduction: The adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015 reshaped global nutritional epidemiology and malnutrition research, yet its impact on research trends remains underexplored. This study provides a novel bibliometric analysis to understand the evolution of research output, themes, and collaborations in this field from 2005 to 2024. The study aims to assess the influence of SDGs on nutritional epidemiology and malnutrition research over two decades.

Methods: This bibliometric analysis utilized data from the Scopus database, accessed on May 25, 2025. The sample comprised 672 articles from the pre-SDG period (2005–2014) and 3,311 articles from the post-SDG period (2015–2024), selected based on inclusion criteria of original, open-access, English-language articles. Data were analyzed using VOSviewer software to map publication trends, geographic distribution, institutional affiliations, subject areas, and thematic clusters based on author keywords.

Results: Findings reveal a significant increase in publication volume from 672 to 3,311 articles post-SDGs, with thematic diversification from child malnutrition and undernutrition to topics like food security, sustainable diets, and non-communicable diseases. High-income countries dominated publications, though contributions from low- and middle-income countries rose.

Conclusion: The study concludes that the SDGs have catalyzed growth and interdisciplinary approaches in nutrition research, but geographic disparities persist. Future research should leverage diverse databases and content analysis to enhance evidence-based nutrition policies, aligning with the SDGs’ vision for 2030.

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