Determinants Factors of Stunting among Under-Five Children in Aceh Besar, Indonesia: A Cross-Sectional Study
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Abstract
The prevalence of stunting among under-five children has gradually declined at the national level. However, in Aceh Besar Regency, particularly in the working area of Lampupok Public Health Center, the prevalence of stunting has continued to increase, with 52 cases reported in 2021 and rising to 75 cases in 2023. This increase is primarily attributed to inadequate nutritional intake among children. This study aimed to identify factors associated with stunting among under-five children in the working area of Lampupok Public Health Center, Aceh Besar Regency. This quantitative study employed a cross-sectional design. The study population consisted of all mothers with children aged 24–60 months (n = 269). The sample size was determined using the Slovin formula, resulting in 73 respondents. Data collection was conducted from June 3 to June 10, 2024. Data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate analyses, with the chi-square test applied to examine associations between variables. The results showed that exclusive breastfeeding (p = 0.008), feeding practices (p < 0.001), socioeconomic status (p = 0.024), parenting patterns (p = 0.039), and maternal knowledge (p = 0.012) were significantly associated with stunting among under-five children. In contrast, environmental factors were not significantly associated with stunting (p = 0.750). It is recommended that mothers provide exclusive breastfeeding and apply appropriate feeding and parenting practices according to the child’s condition. In addition, public health centers are encouraged to conduct health education and promotion programs related to child nutrition, stunting prevention, proper parenting, and appropriate feeding practices.
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References
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